Now that I have played with the beta software, I can atest to the flexibility provided and also understand the approach that Philips has taken in the standard "default" software.
Many remote users are:
a) not computer literate
b) simply want to eliminate all the clutter
So, the standard release will likely serve them just fine, and of course how does one draw the line in the "standard" anyway? No line, no product to market, no solution for anyone.
On the otherhand, as I stated, for you power users, I believe that you'll find that the ProntoEdit program is extremely clear, powerful, and addresses all of your needs. Surfing channel icons...very simple. Maybe even some icons larger (favorites)than others? No problem.
I will post more as I have more time to play. Suffice it to say that I am very impressed with what I see.