There is also quite a gap between what current users want (mostly no surprises and stable software) and what new users think they want (more features, I believe

There is also quite a gap between what current users want (mostly no surprises and stable software) and what new users think they want (more features, I believe many have the mindset "it does all this but I really want X before I commit"). And of course journalists only want new releases and new large features. Which is why getting features is usually only feasible on launch.