You have to assume that the optical trackpad will be the standard on new devices from now on, economies of scale just means it makes more sense than having multiple types of trackball-type thing when they don't need them.

One thing that does seem slightly worrying about this device is the style of the keyboard, fitting the bold/tour keyboard into a form factor that is closer to being curve-sized could reduce usability somewhat, but if anyone deserves the benefit of the doubt with regards to keyboards its RIM.