mpg, you are confusing acquisition with delivery. It is true that modern computers and computer-like devices (an ever-increasing number of electronic devices) make delivery rather easy - if something doesn't work, just issue an update.I think Panasonic is just trying to get everyone to move towards as few standards as possible. It costs them money to support so many formats. They probably did a cost analysis on it and said most film based movies are shot in NTSC countries so we will just offer 24p and let the PAL countries use 1080i if they really feel like they need 25p.
Maybe this is a good thing? Maybe now everyone will just start using 24p instead of using two formats that are so close together? Since most of this footage will be edited on computers it shouldn't matter what frame rate it is at.
The computer programs can handle any frame rate now and your display device should be refreshing way faster than 25 FPS anyway. 24 FPS will display just fine on a 50 HZ display. As long as the display has a refresh rate more than double that of the source you won't be able to tell the difference.
However, frame rates and formats (progressive vs interlaced) are critical decisions at acquisition stage, which determine the look of footage and available output options at delivery stage. I have already expressed my opinion about using interlaced format for acquisition. It's fine as an option, but not an exclusive one. Target user of GH2 must absolutely have options for common frame rates in progressive full HD mode (24, 25, 50, 60). If for no other reason, but to open frontiers of creative expression for that segment of target user population that desires to venture there. It is quite clear that hardware and software are quite capable. What does Panasonic have to lose but sales to other competing brands? Protecting upper tier-products should not be a concern. I have to assume here that an upcoming professional-line product based on a similar technological platform is a desirable value proposition because it offers offers enough unique features that professionals really want, not because an otherwise capable lower end model is crippled. Or is it?