Off the cuff social theory, FWIW (not too much, but interesting to consider more generally): My guess is that the real issue and discussion is a subtext, that Apple has lost its cache, and that people are testing and exploring the shape and boundaries of the new social dynamic/norm around Apple.

How far has their social position slipped? If I say X will I get a strong response, or is it going too and will it receive a negative response, or does it go not far enough and will it seem bland and be ignored.

It's like gossip - or it is actually gossip. It's the currency (or securities market) of social status.

I used to follow a sports team where the head coach and one chief assistant were beloved. I said that if they don't play well then the other chief assistant is in trouble, because he had little reputation with the fans and would be blamed by process of elimination, whether or not it was his fault. Sure enough, despite undeniable, simple evidence that his area of responsibility was performing well (points are a very easy metric), he got the blame and then the shaft.

If Jobs was still around, unconventional decisions would be seen much more positively; Cook and Apple no longer have that cache and now their position will be tested until their new social position is established.