I actually agree with you there. So many are 'it kinda works' category:
- Maps (you know why)
- Media Player (such weak features and options)
- Email (same here)
- Video recording (my N95 8GB was better)
- Phone app (super basic with twitchy rotation)

I'm glad there are so many good apps made by the community to ease the pain somewhat.
N900 is awesome But it could be sooo much better if Nokia really cared about it after its release.

Anyways. We know hardware can do 720p video record and playback.
But will we ever get the N900 to do it? Hmm. I think it's a bit tougher than overclocking.
I would love it to at least be able to play 720p videos...