cool product: webkinz

I really like this idea. They're like Ty Beanie Babies (limited edition collectible cute soft toys with high re-sale value), but they come alive online - each toy has a unique code which links to its online avatar version.

Like Habbo Hotel, kids can talk to other virtual pet owners, buy stuff for their pet's rooms and so forth. They're doing very well in the US with 2 million units shifted so far, of which about 1 million sign up to the Webkinz online club thing.

Computer time, originally uploaded by mia3mom.

Has implications for products with maximum idea, minimum physical stuff. You could see the virtual stuff as like Barbie's accessories - kids these days are happy to pay money to consume these virtual things (which have less environmental impact).