[pi-err]

Not sure this is the weakest link in value-for-money for Apple products. Like many people I know, my iPhones have been changed for no fee, outside warranty, for minor or major issues.

I'd say it's more about Apple moving from a yearly/bi-yearly iPhone renewal goal to a 2-3 years calendar, with now lucrative gadgets to buy in between. Fine by me: just get the long lasting core products and then pick what you want/need.