I have no idea if the batteries will last 5 years or 1000 charging cycles. I posted that thread as it is “new” technology plain and simple. I stated my opinion of my dislike of any company that chooses the route on non user serviceable parts. THIS is the route Apple is taking. I know we live in a disposable society these days, but I tend to steer towards more DIY type mentality companies rather than proprietary companies that have a program of planned obsolescence.
I still fail to see the big problem when you can get a replacement battery as cheaply for the Apple as your Compaq. So what if the user can’t replace it, either way you are out the same amount of money. If the battery is as useful as they claim do you really not think it is worth the tradeoff of a few hours at the mall? That is really all anyone will be out.
So why were you "begging the question" by declaring that the MacBook Pros would be useless in 1 to 2 years because their batteries would be dead and not replaceable. The fact is that you are stating as facts, things you admit you DON'T KNOW.