Hi there,
I could agree for Case 2 for sure. If you don’t use USB its then absolutely.
I like the battery charging capability and SWD doesn’t do anything for that nice ability. just too bad it’s not implemented well IMO,
Wider appeal for beginners is hands down USB-C, one cable and no extra tools.
and there is ZERO empirical data showing the flashing isn’t close enough to 100%
too many variables is more than likely why. (OS systems Linux or WIN, IDE’s Arduino, PLIO, SDK’s for nordic and ESP, Serial cables) that’s allot to corral.
RPi is a no go IMO. to big of a turn to take as a better value proposition it is subjective at best.
They have a good foundation and should build on that with better back end support.
Good discussion though for sure. I hope others will chime in too.
TY
GL 
PJ
I want seeed to blaze a trail, not follow another trend, I’m thinking chip shortages RPi has faced and hurt some companies who went all in. one concern I have. 