The publication reported that Branson told TechRadar that the iPad 2 was on his wishlist and that "[Steve Jobs is] the entrepreneur in the world I most admire and I think [Apple] is the brand I most admire.

"Everything he does is real class and if he wants to rename his company Virgin Apple I'd be happy to merge! It's a great brand and a great company and may he get well soon.

Branson also mentioned his company's new magazine for the iPad, Project, and spoke highly of its success.

Personally, the idea of a merger between one of our favorite tech brands (Apple) and one of our favorite travel brands (Virgin) makes an attractive prospect, however flippant Branson may have been with his remarks.

[Flickr via Binder.donedat]