Is it just me, or is this a flaw in portable devices? Full metal bodies look nice, but many people cover it anyways. The cover then makes it thicker. I think I like the fabric designs despite not looking as nice. I don't know if it is true, but the fabric design looks like it can survive accidents better. I've seen metal on laptops and phones crack. A laptop with a fabric top seems safer than a flimsy metal or plastic one. Also, I think a fabric design makes the device easier to hold; a flat brick is not the easiest thing to hold.
While I am ranting on design....
Whatever happened to built-in kickstands? Expansion slots? IR? That little loop where you can a wrist loop (whatever it is called)? Why isn't basic weatherproofin g standard?