1) Most people don't give a crap that its 'Apple' that even makes the iPhone, or the iPad. Were the iPhone 4 reviews bad? I don't remember there being bad reviews anyway.
2) People dont care about what version number the OS is.. but they know 'new' is better than 'old'.
2) yes but you go to Apple and want to buy something and tell them: oh let me wait for next iOS version because it will be new. the response will be that your Apple device will tell you when it can update itself.
I actually think Apple kind of cannibalizing (monetary-wise) itself with the fact that 4th gen iPod, for example can update itself all the way from ios4 to 5. But of course, before bunch of downvotes come in, I think its a good approach that they don't take advantage of this fact and let you enjoy your old device with newest software.
Really now?
1. Apple has love/hate relationship. Most people don't care about review, as long as its a new Apple product. iPhone4 initial sales prove that, even after major websites couldnt recommend it, sales were through the roof anyways.
2) Updates are being pushed automatically. You can decline, but why would you wait to buy a device because update iOS 5.6.1.2 didnt come out yet? Hardware issues are very rare - of course the antnae/grip case, but apple offered free of charge help anyways - and you could always "hold it different way" :)