[neurotech1]

I suspect the OP is claiming that Carrier IQ tracking could still be active, in low-power/sleep modes, that still could represent a privacy risk if the battery is removed. When the battery is re-inserted and/or the phone is turned on, then the data is transmitted to the cell tower, then Carrier IQ servers.

[tmzt]

What would that be collecting when the main application processor and baseband processors are not powered? The battery referenced in the article is likely to backup a RAM chip and isn't even used in most modern phone/smartphone designs, which use Flash EEPROMs instead. There have however been phones which have a small internal battery powered by the external battery which has to be charged to operate the radio.