Pretty much accurate. Yes, it gave a smaller device. Yes, cursor movement is needed especially with text input: placing it near the other text input keys makes it more convenient, instead of always having to read for it while inputting text. Duplicating the d-pad doesn't really make sense. Yes, it's a strategy decision, as a step towards finger usability. Not having the d-pad there forces designers to make application designs that do not rely on having the d-pad there. i.e. more finger usable application designs. Aesthetics is in the eye of the beholder, that wasn't really a factor here (Nokia has plenty of devices with the d-pad in the cover). No to space lizards, unfortunately.