Littleman, on reflexion I agree with you that apps might not be as big a block as I thought. I suspect the Linux community will rally to the flag and build apps after this gets built. Also, I suspect many apps previously prepared for Ubuntu Phone can be salvaged and ported over.
In looking into the phone being offered I could almost live with it as described. It looks good. The lack of a calendar app is kind of a deal breaker. Unfortunately, I've also been spoiled by larger phablet screens for my aging eyes. OTOH the price is right. I just might jump in for a second generation phone.