From the beginning, out of all the negative features of the reported iPhone was the anticipated inability for a user to swap out the battery. We have been conditioned to simply accept Apple’s “Product Life Expectancy” argument and just deal with the idea that when the battery dies, it’s time for a new one. And much like we have been trained to do with the ipod, should something go wrong prematurely with the battery, it would mean a send back to the factory or the Apple store for a replacement.

Now we have the rumor that the iPhone will in fact have a removable battery. Reported by Ars Technica citing from the VIM3 weblog, the “battery would be user-replaceable after all by means of the lower speaker area sliding down and revealing the battery.”

If true, this would be a huge barrier of the iPhone’s success dropped to it’s knees. But Apple wouldn’t just do it because people ask for it. This move would make more sense for Apple. Allowing for user-replaceable batteries means more troubleshooting through less expensive channels like online user forums and discussion groups. it also means less training for Apple and AT&T techs that no longer require training to break open iPhones.

But most importantly, it means Apple can focus on the features, not the limitations of their new device. They can release longer life batteries without having to deal with angry first-gen buyers.

As a consumer and future iPhone user, I am excited by this rumor. I certainly hope it is true.

[Via Ars Technica]