[SlantedChanter]

Thanks for the advice downeaster59 and Purple Lady. I'm still torn.

The t63 is only about $125 on Taobao and comes with the screen protector and flip cover I would like. It seems to already improve in the areas I didn't like about the t62: dimmer screen for night reading, slightly lower weight, and improved resolution for occasional manga reading + bragging rights.

Getting in early at a discount on the sleeker and smoother Venus is enticing but is mainly for kicks rather than solving any deficiency in the t63. From the product page Q&A area it looks like rooting is mandatory for side-loading apps. Perhaps this was the same for the t63?

Anyway, I'll report to the forum if I do opt for the Venus over the t63 and wait with interest for reports from any other early adopters.