I simply don't care if the UI is closed, I can replace it with another one (e.g. xterm ). Now, if the drivers are closed, I have no way to install a newer kernel, which in turns will preclude me from installing newer applications (which sadly will require the forever-broken-fad-of-the-day-only-available-with-the-bleeding-edge-kernel).

Why should it be? I have 10 years old PCs still doing their duty, why should I replace a mobile device many times more powerful than that in 2 years?
Oh, I see, the closed drivers force me to buy the new! improved! one, since there's no way to update the old one.
Thanks, but no thanks, I won't buy into a business model that only tries to screw the customer.