The ambient light can be useful. You can toss the N810 in a corner, on its battery, for example in your sleeping room. When you wake up you'll see based on the light whether you have an e-mail.

I use this (in the weekend mornings) for a specific e-mail account which I use only for important communication. If the light doesn't blink, I know I don't have to check my e-mail in the morning. YMMV.