The XDS' slide can be racked without the grip safety being depressed. Internally it is a totally different design than the original XD. More like a Glock.
I got to shoot the XDS Mod 2 in .45 a few months ago. On paper the differences are improvements, but I honestly like the grip on the original better.Anyway, one of you (NOT ME!!!) should buy one, try it out, and report back.