Not just Nintendo. The PlayStation 4 controller had that touchpad in the middle that also clicked in to act as a button. I played a lot of games that used it as a button (usually to open a map, or something) and don't remember a single game that used it as a touchpad.

Likewise for the PS Vita's features such as the rear touchpad.

Microsoft is somewhat to blame for new controller features being underutilized because they're extremely reluctant to add anything to the Xbox controller. Motion control in particular stands out, the hardware isn't expensive and it's proven to be very useful in some types of game, but the lowest common denominator Xbox controller still doesn't have it so multi-platform games can't be designed around it. Especially multiplayer games with crossplay since you can't let some players have more precise inputs than others.

Would be amusing if they just allowed it anyway and if you use an Xbox controller, you just suck at the game. Pressuring MS to add gyro.

It’s used very heavily for system functionality, such as with the onscreen keyboard. Not so often with the games.

It’s an expensive component and they brought it back for free he second gen so they must think it’s worth it

I think someone at Nintendo has a brother-in-law that owns an IR sensor manufacturer. Only explanation for that feature being in every right joycon.