The problem is that Maemo is now drawing in large numbers of average users who, for whatever reason, can or will not handle well the sort of disasters that immature packages can inflict. And yes, while some have few if any issues with -devel apps, others have not been so fortunate.

So the safest thing for the rank and file to do is be forewarned and proceed with caution. There's certainly no harm in more advanced users mining -devel gold ore and helping shine it up... nor is there any harm at all in cautioning the general public.