@CharlesDR +1
I started out agreeing with Bill Detwiler. Having no user replaceable/upgradeable components is bad. But then I read CharlesDR's response. Twice. I agree with him. My current laptop has had it's hard drive replaced with a larger hard drive 3 times. Nothing else has changed in the 4 years I've owned it. My main data growth is due to my being an amateur photographer. I could just as easily store my photos on the external HDD dock that's already connected to my laptop for backup purposes.
I remember the days when a memory upgrade involved purchasing discrete memory chips and inserting them in sockets on the motherboard or expansion card. When the motherboard manufacturer's started soldering the chips directly to the motherboard we saw in increase in reliability. We used to have to purchase discrete video display adapters, networks cards, modems, sound cards, etc. Once they were included in the motherboard chip set we saw another increase in reliability. Cost decreased.
Apple's latest move with this MBP continues this trend. I suspect reliability will increase. By the time the battery wears out the owner will be ready for the latest MBP. External HDDs are cheap and easy to install. I have a tablet computer with both WiFi and a wired jack. I can't remember the last time I used a wire. The tablet doesn't have a DVD drive. I have an external USB DVD drive when needed and I often use a USB flash drive.
CharlesDR is correct. A computer/laptop/tablet is just a tool. It's no different than a calculator, TV, radio, microwave, MP3 player, etc. Why add to the cost/complexity of a device to make it upgradeable when the majority of people replace instead of upgrade?
Same thing with cars. People used to travel with tire repair kits. I've heard stories from the 1920's where it wasn't uncommon to do an engine repair alongside of the road. Now we go 100,000 miles between tuneups.
