Originally Posted by
mahohmei
I dare someone to run the Android app "GPS Status" (
http://eclipsim.com/gpsstatus/) on a 10" tablet like the Motorola Xoom and see if any fellow passengers start screaming or otherwise freaking out. I know that GPS devices tend not to work on aircraft, but that app's main screen has plenty of numbers and circles to make someone think that you're an even bigger terrorist than someone with a book about WW I-era airplanes.
I've run GPS Status, Google Maps, My Tracks and other apps from my Android phone when in flight. Works pretty good if you are in a Window. I've also used my Garmin Nuvi, with the only reaction from seat mates being "thats pretty cool".
Even with no windows, Wifi enabled planes make it quite easy to look up your location on flightaware and other sites. Sure it is delayed a few minutes "for security", but you could make a much more reasonable guess as to when to ignite your underwear than by just looking out the window.
Pure paranoia and "we're doing something to keep you safe" BS.
I do keep my shoes on, plus my wallet, passport (if international) and phone stay in my pockets at all times. If I do have to evacuate, at least I have cash, credit and the ability to move around the world - and hopefully a working phone.