These are Matter/Wi-fi devices, not Matter/Thread devices, so I don’t think that part applies?
No, this is a property of Thread and not limited to Matter devices. For example you can mix Thread/HomeKit devices with Thread/Matter devices in the same Thread mesh.
Only wired devices act as range extenders though, like smart plugs or outlets.
I don‘t know how to feel about this. While It’s nice to be able to replace the battery, I very much prefer the durability of todays phones over those flimsy removable back plates that used to be common in the 00s.
I really hope they mean that no special tools/skill are required. They should just standardize one type of micro screwdriver that everyone has to use.
Replaceable batteries inevitably also have to be sturdier s.t. they don‘t pose a fire hazard, making the entire phone bulkier or reducing battery life.
My iPhone XR is now over 4 years old and battery capacity is still at 80%, getting me through the day easily.
Before that I had an iPhone 4s where I replaced the battery after ~6 years. I was really disappointed with the new battery and ended up buying a new phone anyway after a few weeks.
My phone is the device that I use the most by a huge margin. It doesn‘t bother me too much if I have to replace it every 5-6 years. And I‘m pretty environmetally conscious in general.
Currently Matter devices are indeed more expensive but they have the potential of being even cheaper. Matter also supports Wifi and Ethernet, not only Thread.
With Matter, device manufacturers can focus entirely on the hardware/firmware and don‘t have to worry about client software like custom apps. They only have to implement a single protocol to support all major ecosystems natively.
In theory this should also lower the bar for entering the market for small companies.