I think it's a fantastic idea, When the original 3DS came out, I could barely afford it and had to sell some of my favourite game's just to ensure I could buy it.
Not to mention that around 80% of 3DS users don't even use the 3D feature due to eye strain and other reasons.
It's obviously designed for people without 3DS consoles to join the next generation in time for Pokemon X & Y (Both the Console & Games are released on the exact same day), and this isn't a bad thing at all.
I personally know a few people who say they would consider upgrading for X & Y if their was a cheaper console available and this is it.
Everyone is insulting the design of the console just because it dares to look different to all the other DS Console's which look like early 2000's flip up motorola phones.
Let's ALL join the Nintendo hate train just because they care about their fanbase.