So thankful that I found this thread, but it leaves me so sad...
I have just cancelled my apple store order for a RMBP 15" 2.6GHz, 16GB RAM, 768GB SSD, Superdrive, and TB adaptors.
Im currently using a 2008 unibody core2duo machine, that is getting seriously tired, but I will definately be waiting after hearing all the stories. I rarely have £3000 to drop on a computer, and can't afford to have any build issues with it. My work involves hours a day of CAD, and I know the retention issue would drive me crazy.
I've been an Apple user for years, and have had the odd issue with gear, as is to be expected (my 2008 macbook pro I am typing on is a third replacement, due to the well documented NVIDIA graphics card issue that plagued an early batch.
I work in the entertainment industry, and recently built a new keyboard rig and playback system for a major international touring artist (you can figure it out from the pic) - which consisted of 4 of the above spec RMBP, which I was incredibly impressed with, having just used them for a week before handing the rig over to the touring tech. Obviously for this purpose, image retention is not much of an issue, as they boot up and run ableton/mainstage and then get switched off again.
But for my own personal work computer this just isnt acceptable. What is more worrying, is that Apple diddnt notice this, or dont have the QC up to scratch for its outsourced components. People like myself base our business and reputation on the quality and reliability of these computers, and we pay a price premium accordingly. What other compenents could suddenly deteriorate over time, and leave a rather embarrassed bunch of musicians on stage or live tv!
(notice in the pic there are 2 rigs, each with a live redundant backup - I dont take any chances)
I understand that it may be outside of Apples control, but for £3000 there needs to be some serious QC improvements.
Apple, you make the best stuff, and you have loyal customers becuase of it. But you've just lost a sale because I honestly dont know if my laptop will arrive with image retention, yellow ghosting, flickering display, overheating, crunching noises, or any other amount of symptoms.
I really hope this gets resolved, I would like to be confident in your products again.
