i like the idea of a keyboard with the big screen, so that i can see more text while i'm typing. i have the D1 now, and rarely use the keyboard because the design blows. that is why i thought a virtual keyboard might be nice. but, i agree that batt life would be a definite issue. with a physical keyboard, i'm concerned about the design, and the weight - my D1 is bulky enough with the keyboard, and i can only imagine the added weight of a keyboard with a 4.3" screen.
other than that, in theory, this phone sounds like a beast of a phone (in a very, very good way)!! i'm definitely holding out for it...