It doesn't take up much space at all, (I know, I've looked) and won't use up your battery if it's not in use, so all in all, considering the functionality you get, I think they should leave the modem's in there.
I understand that many still use the 56k modem, which is why I labeled that complaint as "small." Though I do think that Apple will one day have to take the leap of faith, much like the one they took when they stopped including floppy drives with their computers. Sure, there were those who balked at the omission, but in the long run, it was a good move.
I can't think that it would be too difficult to make a small, external 56k modem for those who still use them. Much like the external floppies that many bought when Apple starting shipping computers without them.
im suprised at the number of people who dont think they would want/need a light. I have a 12" ibook, and when using it in complete darkness, unless I have the screen brightness all the way up (not very often), it is hard to see...I really would like a back-lit 12" powerbook..