Epic hardware does not a great mobile device make. It takes *very* tight integration between the hardware and software. And at least right now... with the impressions that had with UT about a month ago, it needs a lot of polish on much lesser hardware.

About "the Edge" - I expected real innovation, not just speeds/feeds. For example:
- the battery tech they want to use is edgy, but not far enough. Its a 2012 innovation, not a 2014 one
- why isn't the screen wrapping around the edges of the device
- why doesn't it have a battery that's 4000mah or better (yes, I know the physics of making too big a battery)
- the edge in specs would be a processor less than 1Ghz and less than half a gig of RAM to pull all of that off - more is not edgier

And that's just some of my hardware qualms. Nothing about what they talked about with this device makes the software stand out. I think Rita said it nicely when she remarked that the hardware of the Nexus 4 allowed the software to move to the background and it just be usable.

I don't know that they would make their goal. I wish they could. But, that's a bit one to jump for. Something about the campaign says that Ubuntu wants to do a mobile platform, but is afraid that parts of their project, if not the whole thing, could be usurped by a current mobile leader. By making this project crowd-funded, they bend away from the potential of losing an influencer role with the project. Savvy, but probably could backfire - especially if an LG, Huwaei, ZTE, or (gasp), Nokia felt like pushing harder into this.

As a matter of interest (Nokia-speaking), it could make for an interesting plan B if Windows Phone trends continue. And would be something they'd be able to pivot to quickly.