I have files download / export to desktop pretty often since I use it as a visual workspace (I can drag things around freely), and I got used to hitting that button. Since it's in the corner, it was easy to throw the mouse down there, similar to the X in the top right
I could get used to the keyboard shortcut though, especially because that one is reversible
I always liked the idea of the desktop, it's just never been useful for me (and I've tried, since Norton Desktop in 1992).
Mine just becomes a cluttered, illegible mess. Probably because I find icons messy and confusing. Lists make sense to me, icons and graphics just seem like wasted space.
I suppose if I could have folder views on my desktop that could work.
What was there before? I don't remember ever needing to click in that area. I did notice the new icon but as far as I knew it just moved the clock over.