Battery life can be more (a lot more - or LESS).
Some is actual part failure. Others are due to use and abuse factors.
Here's another source for batteries with Step-by-Step photos of how to do it!
http://www.ipodbattery.com/Actually not that bad, and you can see why Apple used a "waffer" battery - there's no extra room!
PS. Read the brothers message. "A Message From the Neistat Brothers" at their site.
Bottom line, they bought a new iPod, and are happy with Apples new policies - so much for the consumer angst!