Personally before reading this topic I did think the DSi XL was a craptastic upgrade, but then after reading this I agree it was a good idea. Sure part of the reason for the upgrade is to make more money, and trick current DSi owners into thinking their DSi is obsolete, but the other reason is a good one. The DSi XL is great for younger kids, and older people. The bigger screen makes it easier for older people to see. The bigger buttons make it easier for younger and older people to use, as they can be seen better. The battery life is good for everyone, younger kids because they are probably not going to remember to charge it, us because it just makes it more portable (yes I said MORE portable), and older people because their memory might not be as good as it used to. If Nintendo makes the console more durable then it's another plus for younger kids, because let's face it, little kids don't know how to take care of things. I personally won't be buying a DSi XL for a few reasons...
1. I already own a DSi
2. I don't really need a bigger screen
3. The battery life hasn't been a problem for me
4. I can't afford it
I'm not the kind of person who upgrades right away. When the GBA first came out I got a GBC, when the GBASP came out I got a GBA, then a few years later got the SP on eBay. When the DS came out I got it (first day of release, still have it to this day), when the DS lite came out I didn't do jack, because the lite was pointless to me, when the DSi came out I got it because I figured it was time to upgrade from my DS phat. I guess what I'm trying to say is I don't like to upgrade just because it's the newest thing. I mean sure it's nice to have the improvements from the newest thing, but if it's not a necessity then I don't mind having an older version. I still have a PSP2000. Sure the 3000 is finally hackable, and has a "better" screen, and better AV/out and a built in mic, but I still prefer the 2000 over the 3000. Now come the 4000 if it's got major updates like dual joysticks, faster internet, built in HD, still supports UMD, and possibly a bit smaller in size (screen can shrink, I don't mind) then I might get it, but just updating to the newest thing just because it's new is stupid.
Overall this was a smart move for Nintendo. Not only is it a money maker, but it's also helpful to those who need it. Sure the price tag of $250 is expensive, but if you need it for the reasons posted before then that's great get it! But if you don't need the bigger screen, or better battery, then either stick with your DS lite, or DSi.