Skooba, Targus among first TSA-approved laptop bags
Having to take laptops out of bags for the x-ray machines at airport security is a pain, especially if you tend to have funny laptops that set off tedious "Oh, that's a funny laptop" conversations whenever you get them out. Skooba Design and Targus will be among the first to make TSA-approved bags, permitted to run through the screening machine with the lappy still inside. From USA Today:
"A policy likely to take effect in a few months ... [for the] new "checkpoint-friendly" cases, which passengers would have to buy if they want to take advantage of the new TSA policy. Travelers could still use old cases but would have to continue removing laptops at checkpoints."
Skooba says it's currently working on product demos, and hopes to have products available soon. In fact, the TSA has received 52 proposals since announcing the new policy. Yay! A whole new consumer product category invested entirely in the eternal continuation of a state of war.
UPDATE: Skooba's Michael Hess writes to remind consumers that internet photoshops aren't real:
"Believe it or not, we have already received a few calls and notes both asking if we had that bag and also some expressing annoyance that we do! Obviously we don't can't be "responsible" or liable for that message or the mocked-up product (though I think it is very funny) or mislead any consumers, so if you can somehow address that, we'd appreciate it. Wish I didn't have to ask, but you know how these things go."
No problem, Michael! Perhaps you should consider making a special edition. After the TSA approves your new bag, that is.
Have laptop, will breeze through security [USA Today]
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Will TSA agents be trained to recognize TSA-approved laptop bags on sight?
Yes, they'll be trained to recognize the bags. Just like they were trained to recognize the TSA-approved locks they cut off my luggage.
Of course, if the bag actually had that graphic, it would likely be considered an invitation to a a full review of your laptop's files, with the laptop outside of your sight. Taking just long enough for you to miss your flight.
But long enough for them to have time for the body cavity search.
Love the logo - which, btw, was created by Drew Carey. He passed out stickers with that motto at an event held by Reason Magazine in Vegas a couple of years ago.
I Heart TSA? Shouldn't that be I Heart The TSA? Come on, Drew Carey. I know your politics are misguided and your career choices are hit and miss, but at the very least check your comedy for grammatical errors.