I can't see crappy things in this system. Please, explain why do u think that? Autoupdate its only one good feature of systems like Steam. Friends, groups and invite features are more useful for me. It's easy way to give some info about new mods, DLC, packs, addons when all players start the Steam before start the game.
All I saw from EA its crappy window "EA message" when start BF2, poor friend system in BF2142 and a lot of accounts on both games - part of them makes only for change own nicks and part from cheaters with dynamic IP.
Anyway. EA already trying Steam.