I haven't read actual Pre only forums, but I check Crackberry and read up on it there.
IMO, the battery "problem" on the Pre will be a lot less noticeable compared to the iPhone. This is because for business users or those who work at a desk will most likely have a rockstone (or whatever they're called). In other words, it pretty much charges whenever you're sitting down at your desk. This compared to the iPhone where you must carefully place it in a dock or find your coords to plug it in. Really smart idea by Palm, yet for students (like me) who can't plug in a rockstone at their desk, its still a problem.
As for the keyboard, I suppose I'm just blessed with the Bold and it being (IMO, and many others opinions) the best mobile QWERTY keyboard. I've only played with the Pre once or twice so I can't really fully comment on its keyboard other than my first impressions, but I can just imagine trying to type with sweaty fingers. And I agree with the iPhone touch keyboard, I can't stand it. I'd love a full touch screen phone for the wonderful web browsing experience but theres no way I can type upwards of 50-60wpm on a touch screen.
The screen cracking should be fixed soon, and if thats the only REAL problem Palm has, they're surely on the comeback trail. Its nice to see a different name once in awhile from BB, Apple, HTC, etc.
edit: Red, something you may want to know..
http://www.eatmedaily.com/2009/06/the-palm-pre-can-slice-cheese-video/