Other pet projects: robotic toys that interact with kids and devices that help the blind see.

FORBES: Patrick Soon-Shiong: Meet Los Angeles' Billionaire Would-Be NFL Stadium Owner

Retailers found backing to launch websites to sell everything from toys (eToys) to pet food (pets.com) to medical advice (webMD.com).

BBC: Internet cafe in Beijing

The idea of actually having a tea party, at least at home, has long been relegated to the world of little girls, as a social occasion with dolls, stuffed toys and perhaps a semicooperative pet or two.

FORBES: Why The Tea Party Will Always Seem Lightweight: It's All In The Name