Good gadgets are about looks, too

All my geek friends have been talking about Apple's iPad since its launch last week. I am not a geek. But all those electronic tools and toys gathering dust in the cupboards and drawers can attest to my credential as a gadget freak.

As soon as I heard the news about this device, I searched my gadget inventory and retrieved two items that fit the description of the iPad in look as well as function. These are the so-called touch-screen tablet computers. One of them has a fully articulate screen attached to a diminutive keyboard, and the other is just a screen with some function keys on the hand holders.

They have been laying in the cupboard for many months because I couldn't find much use for either of them. With my piggy bank fattened by the expected tax rebate, I think I won't be able to resist buying the iPad when it hits the market in a few months time.