Yeah, I mean it's certainly a clunky naming convention compared to using sequential numbering like Sony, but I figure the price tag is going to serve the same purpose, you know? People are mentally trained in a "it costs more, it's better," way, and anyone thinking in those terms is probably a casual who won't really suffer from getting a standard model, either way. It is interesting to discuss, though, you're correct.
I mean, in some ways I think MS are in a tough spot.
The exclusive games are what give Sony the edge.
However having the most powerful console is a major selling point in gaming.
So MS knows that they MUST have the most powerful console on the market.
That's cool but you know it's going to be the most expensive too.
So they are going for the best of both worlds, I think.
Release the most powerful console ever but also release a cheaper version to appeal to people who don't like the price tag.
So maybe the naming convention has been picked to try and make sure the two consoles are not seen as too different from each other.
Essentially you want the Series S to sell based on association with "most powerful ever" so it has to be named similarly.
I dunno. We'll find out in a year or so when sales data starts to really take shape.