This may be at a different level from what you have in mind, and relates more to the standards issue you would prefer to deal with later; but the issues are inextricably linked: access to data/ information/ knowledge in free/open standard formats via free/open protocols with software libre, ... saving lives and enabling a2k and innovation in communities towards self-determination, self-empowerment, etc.
Thanks for your suggestions and for all the other links, stories and suggestions! You certainly got me started beyond the WGA/iPhone/Kindle apƩritifs.
The point about lack of interoparibility (and transparency, and code access) potentially costing lives is especially important, I believe. The SAP angle (and the haptics one) are also real eyeopeners. So thanks again.
br Carsten