I know a common refrain with my friends is "IDGAF about an extra few centimeters, give me an audio jack". I think consumers are down for thicker phones if they get something for it. In this case, a phone that lasts longer
I'm pretty sure most companies optimize for what the consumers actually want.
You assume that everyone needs more battery life. That need is highly variable based on different use and access to chargers.
People say that but then they don’t buy the phones.
There is a difference between revealed and stated preference.