.Mac: a New GUI

The expected evolution is there: Apple has released its new graphical user interface for its .Mac service
If esthetically it looks nice and can be consider as a successful evolution, it is currently unfortunately rather slow. It might just be a temporary issue, due to the introduction of the new GUI.
Now, the question: Is .Mac service worth the money? Is the integration with iApps the only real advantage of this "expensive" service, when compared to similar ones that are available from third-parties on the web, and in many cases free...
Give us your point of view on our forum: http://forum.hardmac.com/index.php?showtopic=207