The stake mount is just a simple option. (Yes, really.) You can mount it however you like. You can also power it via a solar panel as an option.
Like I said, a wind sensor is on the schedule for 2016. They haven't said anything yet about a real rain gauge, but I suspect that's also under consideration. This seems to be targeted toward integration with a home automation system (kind of like what was supposed to happen with the AcuLink bridge and its unused 433MHz transmitter).
Yes, this is probably targeted for mass-market retailers like WalMart. I suspect they're going after the Acurite market demo, which doesn't have a lot of competition at the moment.
No one is actually interested in the actual design? Oh, well... I guess I'm the only one interested in UV/Temp/Humidty/Baro/Pictures with Mobile Internet access for around $100? Wow.