[JG in SB]

I wondered exactly the same thing. I ended up getting a 9700 because I got an amazing deal on one ($29.99 for simply extending my existing contract for another year). I am REALLY happy with it. The just slightly smaller size is great, but the significantly reduced weight is the thing I notice the most. Also the trackpad seems to perform much better than the trackball, although I never really had any problems with the trackball on my 9000. I actually miss the nice bright light from the trackball, but I can live without it. Would have been cool if they had made the edges of the trackpad light up (can't make the whole thing light up I guess). Also, I WAY prefer the feel of the rubberized black side buttons on the 9700 to the "chrome" buttons on the 9000. The battery life also appears to be noticeably better. If you can get a deal you think is affordable than I'd recommend the upgrade.