I recall reading that they didn't set the clipboard battery to recharge from the keyboard battery because it would cause a heat problem, which would require more heat dissipation capacity, therefore more size or weight. Sounds reasonable to me.
I've had my SB since the 26th, and the vast majority of new-tech issues have been cleared up by updates. I expect the rest will be also. I think one should expect a few hiccups in such cases, and be patient til things are resolved. I went into the purchase knowing that it would be a bit rough...
Another reason for the unrolling hinge is to increase the moment, or leverage, of the keyboard in balancing the backwards-leaning display. It makes the whole thing less likely to tip by giving it a longer base.
Yes. The focus fn doesn't always take effect, and even if it does, there's no photo (usually), when the camera icon is touched. Once in a while a picture will be taken, but rarely.
Front camera is OK.