This is cool, but I don't like the fact they've essentially forced you into a particular key layout with this design. I thought the whole point of an Arduino board is how modular it is?
What if I'm trying to build out a controller for a PS2 emulator on my phone? I don't have all the requisite buttons. I also don't have them in the layout I'd expect. That's kind of a bummer.
I think this is for people rapidly prototyping robots and devices that need RC-like functionality (hence the name "esplora") -- judging from that, this is meant to be a time-saver for a very specific purpose: creating remote controls for vehicles, which generally only require a similar button layout. I think it will be a success, mainly because that seems to be a common task for people using Arduino boards for robotics-type projects.
I also think that's their initial idea. What I don't get is this: why would you build an entire Arduino-based robot, only to buy an almost-ready RC-controller. Which isn't actually an RC-controller, because you'd have to have a separate transmitter shield for it...
I don't think it's intended to -just- be a controller, but rather a game console unto itself(hence the socket for color TFT screen) . It certainly could be used as just an input device, though.
I think this might be aimed at classrooms that are teaching Arduino programming. This is a good mix of input and output to get people started without having to break out the soldering irons.
The Tinkerkit connectors would let the students add other physical interfaces, while still not soldering.
But then it is a RadioShack exclusive product‽ Maybe RadioShack just paid them a small pile of money to make something to their specs.
What if I'm trying to build out a controller for a PS2 emulator on my phone? I don't have all the requisite buttons. I also don't have them in the layout I'd expect. That's kind of a bummer.