Apple still sacrificing recyclability to make thinner iPads

They're innovating and making products we've never seen before. I don't understand the aim of this article. Is Apple doing something wrong? If the argument is that you cannot replace glass/batteries/etc.. yourself then I don't agree at all. My mom isn't gonna replace anything on her iPad. She'll take it to the store and have them do it. Sure, I could do it. Sure, there are lots of non-hackers out there who are capable of doing it, but if we look at the 80/20 rule here (which I feel applies) the vast majority of people wouldn't service their iPad even if it was a bit easier than it is now.

My concern extends to non-accessible batteries. I see these devices as potentially having many year long lifespans. But batteries still do not make it that far.

(Also, separately, these days, there's the "remove battery to prevent tracking and/or covert access" aspect.)

I'd like to know that when the current battery goes tits up, I can replace it. There are certainly enough units to support an after-market, if Apple does not want to service said market itself.

When it comes to final "recycling", frankly I don't see convenient disassembly being a significant factor. The item's probably going to be stripped for raw materials, regardless. Though having these easily segregate-able and as non-toxic as possible, once the case is cracked, would be nice.

P.S. Regarding repair, I forgot glass repair. Although I see that more as a matter of form factor. If you want Apple-sleek, you're going to get difficult mountings.

Again, though, not being able to pop the battery out of the back, does bother me. I suppose "sleek" might be considered to apply there, as well, although with its perhaps more workable metal surface, I wonder. Although, again, structural integrity and rigidity might well be compromised enough to put the unit, including the glass, at significantly increased risk.

I think I've had too much coffee...