I understand the comments about having a tactile based interface when it is necessary to place close attention constantly and visual interfaces amount to a distraction. I don't see this as a significant issue because most layouts require you to set the throttles and occasionally you can operate the sounds or other accessories and that is about it. Unless you have a very complex layout, set it and forget it seems to be the norm. Hence the popularity of features such as cruise on the command locos.
The rest then comes down to personal preference. I don't think either MTH or Lionel is trying to force anyone to abandon handhelds. That being said, if there is a software application that will replace the handheld and that will be able to run on a device that the vast majority of households already have, that seems like a rational solution to the problem of hardware obsolescence and reliability. Moreover, a tablet or phone has more expandability and can be upgraded over time as technology warrants. This makes the hobby more interesting generally and appeals more to younger users that relate to things more through a phone or tablet.
I do think there will be some debugging and I went through that with the DCS wifi unit a few days ago, posted here about it. The good thing is that you have people here on the forum who are experts and most of the issues are readily fixed. Having adopted the wifi unit, I can tell you my kids love it and I wouldn't go back. Not that the other modes of operation are bad, it is just that the tablet interface is easier for them to use.
