For $1000 I can't even get a laptop with a decent email client. The laptop, yes, but all email clients suck

Seriously, it'll be interesting to see what you think. If I were after a superb email client, I wouldn't expect it on the N900 (at this time - it will evolve) and I'd get something else.

But not an iPhone - how can you seriously do proper emails on a phone with no keyboard? Unless you're one of those people who only writes 2-line emails

Based on my experience with phones, it's usually worth persisting for a week or two with a new one even if it's annoying, because you get over the differences and things you were expecting from the last one, and only then can you get a feel for what the new one does well. Sometimes differences are really annoying and seem like stupid design decisions, yet after a few weeks I've seen my mind completely changed.

As it happens, I am in the market for a great email client and general all-purpose life assistant integrated communications megacentre, but I'm prepared to port or even write one if necessary which suits my personal way of working.

That's a major plus for the N900 for me - I'm not stuck with what it comes with; I can adapt it to work the way that suits me. And I will.

Sucks to be an ordinary user who doesn't program, though

No, wait, even non-programmers are allowed to use the free apps written by others! Enjoy, you're welcome, have a nice day