I don't want you to feel ignored, but I don't have much to say.

I've never used iTunes. I've never downloaded a podcast. I don't "sync" anything.

If you count the open-source, command-line type of Linux stuff, then yes there are hundreds or even thousands of "apps" available.

I bought it because I wanted Linux in my pocket. Being able to use vpnc and rdesktop to manage Windows servers at work, being able to ssh and use full keyboard to work on my computer at home (and with X11 forwarding redirecting programs to the N900 screen FTW), phone already coming with perl, python, gtk+, Qt. It's like having a mini computer in my pocket.

That being said, I have my own long list of disappointing and frustrating things that make me want to throw my N900 into the wall, but it differs from yours since we use our phone in different ways.