> Lots of small touches in applications aren't strictly necessary(animation, transparency), but they do make for an overall nicer experience.

I can't offhand think of a single example where they've improved my experience. (With the exception of things like Google Maps where the JS is an important part of the user interface.) When, for example, a menu or picture animates open instead of appearing instantly, at best I feel mild irritation.

Maybe I'm just a cumudgeon.