Another positive to the new integrated batteries on the updated MBP's is that the base doesn't have a removable base part which would make it even more sturdy. Not that it's much of a downside is that you have to unscrew the base to change anything, but it's not as if you need to change the hard drive that often.

I know a couple of Mac owners at work who see the integrated battery as a deal breaker...

Personally, it doesn't bother me one way or the other.

I can see why, but after a few years of having a laptop that must be plugged because the battery is rubbish, it sounds like a massive benefit. However, is it clever enough to not charge itself into oblivion, or can you run it on the mains without prematurely aging the battery?

The new MBP's have appeared on the PC World and Comet websites available to order, so they should be in the shops soon.

The MBPs use what Apple calls "Adaptive Charging", which - in theory - stops them overcharging the batteries into oblivion.

http://www.apple.com/macbookpro/battery/

PS: Welcome to the club. The black poloneck and RDF ring are in the post.