I get the technical advantages. Lower cost as they don't need to use a socket, potentially better voltage distribution/more dissipated heat, etc. And like others I too update so infrequently that I get a new mobo and CPU at the same time already. My main concern is what it would do to the mobo companies and our range of choices. Lets say there are only 3 Intel CPU's (i3, i5, and i7) and 3 Asus mobo's (basic, middle, and high end models). If the industry switched to soldered CPU's Intel still only stocks three SKU's but now if Asus wants their 3 mobo's to support all 3 CPU's they have to stock 9 different SKU's. I simplified the example so in reality it would be even more complex. Naturally mobo manufacturers aren't willing to expand product lines by that degree so they'll have to cut down on choices. Say pairing the i3, i5 and i7 with the basic, middle and high end boards respectively. But what if I want the high end board for the feature set but only need the speed of an i5? Can't do that now. I'm still worried about the direction the platform is taking but if Intel says they'll continue to support enthusiasts I'll take them at their word for now.