To each his own, I just don't have much use for it. We all know most of the smartphones coming out for at least the next 6 months and none to my knowledge will have front facing speakers. It seems logical that if consumers were clamoring for this type of gimmick (1) we would have seen it before and (2) other OEMS would be following suit. Time may prove me wrong but I just think most people dont listen to media without headphones on.
I really don't care about the Beats or the fact that the speakers are stereo. I do find the FRONT FACING aspect to be a pretty big deal. I do think that other manufactures will eventually try something similar- If not front facing then perhaps front vented.