But why stop there? AI is rapidly reaching the point where your umbrella could not only apologise for poking someone, it could scream "Watch out!" if you get too close to somebody. It could also ask to be opened when the weather looks inclement and greet other umbrellas as you approach. A connection to the web could establish chat centers for umbrellas who might eventually get involved with politics. Once attaining the vote, umbrellas might get control of the Republian party. I would rather see an umbrella in the White House than the mess that is now there.