Why does Apple's new iPad use the "sync with iTunes" model for data management? Why not put it all in the cloud where it belongs?

This seems to position it squarely as a computer accessory rather than as a computer replacement. Which in my mind is a huge, huge mistake. I don't want it to work well with my computer. I want it to be my computer.

"Revolutionary" implies something along the lines of "out with the old, in with the new". Not "add this new thing to the old thing." Is Apple afraid they'd lose Mac sales if they made the iPad too awesome?

There are many smallish nitpicks with this first iPad that I have no doubt can be worked out over time. I fear that this fundamental flaw in concept may limit the iPad forever.