Probably not a big deal, but...

[Shakermaker]

TF2 is going micro-transactions. Read all about it here (I still am at the moment so comment is forthcoming).

EDIT
Interview with Valve's Robin Walker

In this case, the thing that we are trying to build is a framework for a more robust collaboration with the community on content creation. This has been one of TF2’s main drives for some time now. In other games, community creators build content after the release, and it forever remains inaccessible to most players. At the start of this year we unveiled the TF2 Contribute page, which was the first step to moving past that model, pushing community created content into the ongoing development of the game itself.

We view the Mann-conomy as the next, crucial step in the evolution of how communities interact with products. Now they’ll not only be able to contribute to the product, they will be directly compensated for their work.

 

[ríomhaire]

The biggest shock is the bonuses for wearing a set of the polycount items.

 

[Wanted Bob]

Eh, I was worried for a sec, but those microtransactions are fine I guess. People who want that stuff badly will either do this, or just enter achievement idle servers, so if it makes Valve money then I dont really care.

However, if we get charged for future class updates I will be upset.

 

[Shakermaker]

Better close this thread up and head here btw.

 

[EversorAssassin]

They mentioned ALL items you can buy, can still be obtained by random drops like usual. So no big loss. Just a way for guys who don't play much or don't have patience to get items faster.