It already has an edge, and it's gaining more steam. I am in the process of moving all my forums future forums to IPB...and I think a lot of people will be doing the same.
I remember it was just a few years ago that VB was the no questions asked top dog. But how do you go 5-6 years with no real significant changes to your product when the competition keeps getting better and better. VB is lucky to have all of these developers releasing the mods they do, because without them, they would be far behind.
Truthfully, i have NEVER liked IPB. It always looked cheap, poorly designed and easily hacked. That is, until i just took another look at it. I must say, it has gone from el-cheapo to muy caliente!
Now im not one to jump brands often and i will stay loyal to VB until i see VB4. I have a lot of faith in the VB teams and i know they will deliver an amazing new experience. Now, if they dont, i wouldnt mind testing some IPB boards.