I just synced my new Air to my PowerBook's backup in Time Machine and it went smooth as silk. No worries. This is going to be a good arrangement - PowerBook at home, Air for the road.

This is ridiculous. So, since it doesn't have a backlit keyboard or 4+ USB ports, it doesn't work as a standalone?

The lack of backlit keyboard is perplexing, but hardly a reason to exclude it from being used as a standalone. I think it would work great as a primary computer for someone who isn't a super-power user (i.e. most of us).

the new air is awesome. i'm going to replace my 13" MB with an 11" air. i have an iMac for home use and an ipad for social use so the MBA will be a good fit. i love the form factor and my current MB does not have a backlit keyboard so i won't miss it.

Yes, it works perfectly fine for those of you who aren't "super-power" users.

I didn't state however that my comments are based on my experience with a 1st Gen MBA. The 1st Gen lacked too many necessary components, e.g. no ethernet, a single USB port and a relatively small HD. This made it feel much more like a companion rather than a standalone laptop.

This has changed with the latest MBA. The introduction of a 2nd USB port, a much larger SSD rather than a simple HD also increases its usability. Nonetheless, I still don't see it as a standalone computer.

You pay for the portability and design of the MBA. I'd much rather get a faster and more "sturdy feeling" MBP for the same, if not cheaper price.