Interesting post and article but speaking personally I wish people were more outgoing and relating to each other without any product thrown in the mix. But I guess those times are over ever since tv has been available - meaning people started to spend more time in their small circles. And the impersonal safety of internet communication (hidden behind the screen) added to it. To me the community while queueing sounds nice but also a clear sign how society changed and how people still miss real human contact. If that need was provided for in another way queueing would not be such a thrilling experience.
I bought ipad1 in 2010 on the first day in Belgium and there was no community. There was a little queue but people here are quite reserved I find (I'm not Belgian) and would rather look at the ceiling or floor than chat up others.
I like Apple a lot, always did. But I passed up on ipad2 and 3. I'm saving for imac instead
but hey, I remember the thrill of carrying ipad home back then. I'm typing on it now. I use it every day. Best 700€ I spent in a long time.
edit: and gee, I'd love to go to Star Wars con! Long live the Empire
