Theory: Apple uses small design regressions like this as sonar pings, or maybe like tapping the side of a melon to see if it's ripe. If network effects are "ta

Theory: Apple uses small design regressions like this as sonar pings, or maybe like tapping the side of a melon to see if it's ripe. If network effects are "taut" there should not be noticeable consequences to their brand to these small intentional inconveniences. If network effects are slackening, there will be a small, manageable decrease in market share, which can be extracted via some sort of funky fft or something from the overall product-market vibes, providing advance warning of brand damage.