Sounds like the cube to me. People with really processor intensive stuff, like Photoshop will have less need for internet related stuff and need raw power. Possibly multiple processors. Sounds like the new G4 multi-processor. I don't like the idea of using rented software and storing my files on someone else's server.
Real computers are just too cheap.
You are right about where the money is with these companies, and what drives the market. CPU speed is still an issue, if a diminishing one. Right now it is Apple's central issue. If only because of how the market views them. Whatever they do, they will have to do it soon.