Ah, but you CAN read this rascal anywhere you've got a windows machine with a USB port. Since it includes its own reader software, how the data is saved is largely irrelevant (sp?).
Don't mistake me, I'm not necessarily pushing for this thing, but it does deliver text in a standard format across a reasonably universally available platform. I'd prefer an SD approach, myself, something enclosed once it's connected (not sticking out like a sore thumb drive). Maybe CF, since they already have things like microdrives.
As far as the hardware itself goes, you're correct, it may have a ways to go for standardization.
