Oh, because I don't think that everyone shares the opinion that they are an important feature or even the most important feature and that side is greatly underrepresented within the forums despite being the vast majority of the actual consumer base. As I indicated earlier, I think it's somewhat strange that it's very easy for me, who would not like this feature, to understand why someone would want this or that particular feature, yet those who do want it can't seem to understand reasons that someone might feel otherwise. Any time there is a "X or NO BUY!" type of feature, I think it's important that people who want that feature are able to explain why they do, etc. and just as important that others get to explain why they wouldn't want that feature, or perhaps provide some information that paints context as to why that feature may be absent or becoming extinct, despite that users personal desire to see it thrive.
To me it appears as if very few people are trying to understand the scenario objectively and that many people are more likely to invent conspiracies to explain why features are absent, rather than actually thinking it through and weighing the pros and cons, not only from their own perspective, but from that of other consumers and from that of the folks actually designing it. I choose to believe there's a reason the market is heading certain directions and then try to understand those reasons.
I also enjoy it when people who have an opposing view to mine are able to articulate their views and logically debate their position when weighed fairly against counter positions. I absolutely do not think that anyone else ought to agree with my position, etc. They should like whatever they want and do whatever they like. But we're a bunch of phone nerds here and a huge part of the fun is going back and forth to defend our positions. I do think that arguments should be made in a way that is intellectually honest and logically consistent and so I do try to push for that as well. But the more important thing is just to break through the echo chamber and to be engaged. My own opinions are shaped by some of these discussions because there are a lot of people who will make points I've never thought of. Be together; not the same.
Having read the thread in its entirety, I also have to agree that there are points at which you response is along the lines of "no, I will not accept that opinion," "no, your argument is invalid" despite the opinion and argument being just as valid as anyone's. In the beginning of the thread, you requested our opinions while only providing very vague points or non-answers with others providing conclusive opinions and points in response.
As had been proven, you despise removable batteries. So while you claim that you are simply trying to open our minds to 'other options,' it is important to remember that one cannot open minds while retaining a closed mind themselves.
In fact, I am of the opinion that those who like the removable batteries understand well enough why someone wants a sealed battery. On the other hand, it seems as though you are having difficulty in ascertaining and understanding the merits of the feature to which you are so vehemently opposed too.
The benefits and drawbacks of each different feature does fall almost squarely upon benefits for the manufacturer versus benefits for the consumer.
On the one hand you have sealed batteries. This method benefits the manufacturer most handsomely. It is less expensive to produce with fewer parts and assemblies needed. Devices can be manufactured smaller and thinner while keeping similar battery sizes to the removable counterparts. Glass can be incorporated into the back which can allow for a built-in remote charging feature. Slightly more space can be made available for electronics or battery components (but, as previously noted, batteries have remained brick-shaped; give me an apple shaped battery and I will first on line to purchase that phone). These benefits almost wholly benefit the manufacturer for either publicity or cost effective reasons.
On the other hand you have removable batteries. While not quite as cost effective as sealing, it allows for the swapping of batteries. This allows for an instant "recharge" which can not be achieved with sealed phones. This lengthens the life the phone and batteries as well. If the phone is acting up, removing the battery can be used as a quick restart. As I had noted, it negates the possibility of forcing a too-large battery into the case due to tolerance restrictions. Internal components can also be easily accessed.
Build quality and phone durability is now negligible between major manufacturers. Waterproofing can be incorporated into both sealed and removable battery devices. Battery sizes could also be negated slightly with advancing battery technology, power packs, Quick/Fast charging technology, etc. Wireless charging can be incorporated into removable battery devices as well. Devices can be made equally as thin with either method. These features can be negated.
From my own observations, you are doing exactly what you said we shouldn't be doing: weighing the pros/cons from behind the veil of your own biases.