Have been really looking forward to a new RPi release but the lack of onboard M.2 connector is very disappointing in 2023. Many SBCs already had M.2 for years but I guess adding 20 cent connector was too much to ask. Would rather have one M.2 on the bottom of the PCB than bunch of ribbon connectors I will never use. Adding M.2 adapters, ribbon cables, heatsink that should have been included, enclosure just adds up to cable clutter and overall cost, and will make me think twice before getting another RPi. Removing 3.5mm audio jack that I use on Audio Server / Links is also a bad move, and no don't need more adapters.
Might as well just get myself a Beelink S12 Mini for $130 with much more powerful Intel N95, 8GB of up-gradable DDR4 RAM, 256GB M.2 SSD or 16GB RAM version with 500GB SSD for $150. Plus you can run official Ubuntu 22 or Windows 11/10, and actually be able to watch youtube video at 1080p without dropping frames. All this with 6W power consumption.
If anybody from RPi foundation is listening than please take some notes.