I've been watching the live streams since 25c3. First of all, it's a great thing there are so many volunteers make such a big conference possible. Since the 4 years the c3 was a highlight in the year for me. But I have to say I was a bit disappointed this time. I don't know why exactly, but it seems to shift focus. The 3rd talk about osmocom is not that exciting, so is the n-th about hacking outdated wireless smartcards. Yes, electro mechanical instruments are fun, but I haven't seen much new and not a single line of code.
There was quite a lot of dissent about 29c3 primarily because it moved. I think that is also the reason the schedule suffered, so hopefully it's just temporary. Here's Harald Welte discussing why he didn't participate this year: http://laforge.gnumonks.org/weblog/2012/12/18/#20121218-29c3
Probably it is the congress. ( At least I heard a few times that the congress should be more technical.) But on the other hand, the CCC becomes more and more visible in German politics. ( As the default experts for anything computer and 'cyber' related.) So I believe it is only logical that the congress also becomes more political.
Maybe it's me, maybe it's the congress.