What I am quite confused about is how (and more importantly, why) the EF went from this very simplistic set of screens (no transitions, animated icons, etc.) to this rather fancy display with map transitions, animating icons, and fresh new graphics. I did not think the EF had the capability of doing this. Furthermore, why the heck make something you hope to never have to show this fancy? With the exception of the day-by-day map transitions, I honestly would prefer the EF over the current national satellite. It looks stunning on a big HD TV.
Additionally, as Patrick mentioned, why save the "good stuff" (like a storm report map) for the EF? That would be something very useful on a regular, local LF. Unfortunately, these are probably questions that cannot be answered at this point. With this talk of a supposed LoT8s revamp, maybe this is a sign of things to come.