It got too much...
I mean, yes, it's kind of relevant, but it's nothing we as users actually have any influence over...apart from at the point of sale.
Unlike different chemistry choices for processing film and prints, we're pretty much at the mercy of the manufacturers with digital - after you've made the initial equipment choices, then it all comes down to what you do in post.
I suppose for some very critical applications then this does have a bearing and specialist users will no doubt make thier own equipment choices based on different parameters to me: I find it relatively easy in that respect - I just buy the latest Nikon Pro DSLR - though even that's not without pitfalls.
I bought two D3x bodies last year and found them totally unsuitable for the majority of what I do. I've since sold one and replaced it with a D3 with another D3s coming along as soon as someone has them back in stock.
Knowing the theoretics behind the sensor design wouldn't have helped me in that decision - only by using the kit for a while and finding what works and what doesn't through my own shooting preferences can do that.