I finally got one of the pins, and it lasted well over twelve hours/ several shows. Also, you can replace the batteries. So, it lasts forever if you take care of it. I wear it during the day without the lights as a regular pin. I think it's pretty frickin' cool. it's magnetic, so you can attach it anywhere.
I too heard the band was going to be sellling them in a few weeks. Apparently, the fan selling them tried to make a deal with the merchandise contractors in the first few days of tour, but they just stole the idea. He even asked if he could be a vendor working for them, and they said "no." He's obviously a good vendor.
It's a shame the Microsoft's of the merchandise world are the only people who can produce and sell liscensed items. Most times, if fans come up with ideas, the band or mechandisers' simply steal the idea becuase the fan has no recourse.
I have no problems supporting a fan spending thousands of dollars to follow the band. And this guy is a fan. I was side stage, and saw him and his lights on the floor rockin' out like crazy the first night in San Jose. He's like a human bobble head. ha! Besides, he's selling them for $5. They sold for $10 on the Stones tour, and I assume they will be the same once the U2 merch get them. Also, i heard the U2 pins will just have a "V" for vertigo, while his say "U2//."
go blinky, go blinky!!!