Without those peel-out adhesive strips, more vigorous prying and picking are required to free the battery.

The 2.98 Wh battery has less than half the capacity of the 6.55 Wh battery in the iPhone 6s. But with less to do the battery should last for months on a single charge.

That may be true, but it's important to note that all non-replaceable batteries limit device lifespans, eliminate users' options to use removable and rechargeable batteries, and greatly hinder end of life recycling.