Well, yes and no. We're actually talking about the same point, but I think you're coming at it from the feasibility side, and I'm coming at it from the commercial value side. We're both talking about adding "smart" features to devices (and, I think, we are both dismayed at how this is currently being done ); but, you (and Javispedro) are pointing out how this is degrading the simpler, more flexible and versatile devices of the past, whereas I'm pointing out that this degradation doesn't matter. Average folks actually prefer the "smarter" devices.

In fact, you summarize my point nicely:

Really, what else is there to say? The lack of control is not the problem; it is the solution. We few may mourn the loss of flexibility and adaptability in modern consumer electronics, but it is apparent that most folks today crave that one-button experience. They're willing to pay premium prices to achieve it.

tl;dr: There is no reason for manufacturers to produce powerful, flexible, and maintainable devices to we few control freaks , when they can produce over-priced, excessively-simplified "smart" devices for a large market obviously willing to open their pocketbooks.