this is one area that android as an os is better at. it's ready to go out of the box, syncs data from your google account and upgrades the os over the wire.
This is about the fourth post on HN I've seen whining (yes, I think it's whining) about this issue. Apple is going all-cloud soon enough, if the rumors are true. In the meantime, if I'm going to sync 20-25gig of stuff to a new device, I really don't mind plugging it in.
I also don't mind plugging it in occasionally for an OS upgrade. It's just not a big deal, at all. The device is wire-dependent on a daily basis, anyway, folks: it needs a fresh new supply of electrons to keep running. Get over it.