> It’s odd that if you create user-hostile products like Microsoft and Apple, you’re somehow more respected by (some) users

The respect is for the bits they get right more than anything.

Also, if you hold onto control, you maintain control. People respect control. Even when it is pervasively used against them. Perhaps more so.

If you give away control, people quickly forget and lose respect for you, for what you did. After wall, what have you done for them lately?

It isn't fair, but it is how people are wired.

People respond to today's marginal forces. Not much else.