Originally Posted by GrainBrain

That's what I've read as well, surprised no one else has mentioned it?

It's unique in that it didn't use a servo motor, instead relying on a solenoid and the cassette/chain to physically move the derailleur.

I suspect the seemingly slow advent of e shifting is from need, and not technology limitations. A bike transmission is dead simple, and cable actuation is dirt cheap. Of course as technology progresses prices come down.

What I think would be cool? Electronic shifting paired with a power meter and cadence meter, so that shifts could always be at the perfect point in your pedal stroke, and the derailleur could adjust the force required for silent shifts under full power. Maybe this is a bad idea, as we all have a certain amount of pride in a well executed shift while under power as we pass someone