This year my wife applied for EAD online and got approved. It took same amount of time as last year (it's NOT faster). But setting up appointment for picture/FP and going to USCIS Service Center is just another additional hassle - eats half of a working day. Traditional way, mailing the application, takes 5/6 more days to reach USCIS and get a WAC number. But I would not apply online next time - I would prefer sending pictures instead of going to USCIS.