1) Aside from Black Ops all CoD DLC was generally first released in March or April.  You're technically not getting the DLC any later than usual.  You don't want to pay for all the DLC upfront?  That's fine but don't complain about not having early access.

2) After a few matches in each map you'll know them just as well as the Elite members.  CoD maps generally aren't hard to figure out and memorize.  If it's that big of a deal you could always run through a few private matches with friends.

And out of curiousity... what are the problems you had with Battlefield?

For the record...by the time you get these maps specifically we'll have other maps to play already and it won't matter. :]

But releasing the maps to everyone at the same time means a full spectrum of playlists and lots of players playing them - the only reason IW would release earlier is to sell the Elite service - which does not work, hence the underhand sales techniques.

Details on that matter are unknown.  If I had to make a guess though...

If Activision sticks to $15 model (which has been "confirmed" in the latest Elite trailer):

Map Pack = 3 maps / 2 Spec Ops missions

Map Pack = 3 maps / 2 Spec Ops missions

Map Pack = 3 maps / 1 Spec Ops missions / 1 game mode

Map Pack = 3 maps / 1 Spec Ops missions / 1 game mode

or

Map Pack = 4 maps

Map Pack = 4 maps

Map Pack = 4 maps

Map Pack = 6 Spec Ops missions / 2 game modes

Or if Activision goes with a $20 map pack:

Map Pack #1 = 4 maps / 2 Spec Ops missions

Map Pack #2 = 4 maps / 2 Spec Ops missions / 1 game mode

Map Pack #3 = 4 maps / 2 Spec Ops missions / 1 game mode

I just think everyone would benefit more if all players had access, there would be more gamemodes available, more players available etc.

I also don't like being forced into paying up front for all the content, especially as I don't know what this content will be, just to play the new maps a bit earlier.

This model only benefit's Elite, there is no upside for consumer.

I agree Elite users do deserve the maps early as they have been clearly ripped off, but apart from making them feel special, it means nothing.