Those support libraries are the reason half the apps on my device still function because I haven't gotten the latest incremental Android upgrade.

I don't see the problem here. As a developer you can implement support for older versions yourself if you want to, all you need to do is write stubs for every API and platform feature to mske them work somewhat consistently on older platforms. I don't see why you'd waste the time if Google has already done so for your, but you can.

Support libraries are no.1 cause of envy in iOS community because they make developers life significantly easier while still serving people running older devices.

I've yet to see anyone belittle that like you did.

I am not belittling. I have used the Support libraries in every Android app I’ve ever worked on. I am just pointing out that like Play Services, and the post we are commenting on, the support libraries are symptoms of a root cause.

Support libraries are a blessing, our app last year still supports Marshmallow with no issues.