The Universe...

 

The Battery Replacement Service FAQ on Apple's site outlines their policy for handling iPads with diminished battery capacity, and the policy may be one of the best things about the iPad.  For a $99 service fee, they'll send you a replacement iPad.

The FAQ:

• If your iPad requires service due to the battery's diminished ability to hold an electrical charge, Apple will replace your iPad for a service fee.  Note: Your iPad is not eligible for Battery Replacement Service if the product has been damaged, for example, as result of an accident, liquid contact, disassembly, unauthorized service or unauthorized modifications, or if the product is not operating correctly as a result of a component failure. Please review Apple's Repair Terms and Conditions for further details.

How much it costs:

• The service costs $99, plus $6.95 shipping. The total cost is $105.95 per unit.

If you're still skeptical, the data back up section sums it up nicely:

• You will receive a replacement iPad that will not contain any of your personal data.

Batteries losing their ability to hold a charge is just a sad fact of gadget life, and, short of allowing for user-replaceable batteries, there's not a whole lot Apple can do about it. This policy, at least, should make things a bit easier to bear.