Why do you think iPhone has become a status symbol? I would guess it's partially because Android has had so many issues with fake apps and malware in the Google Play Store that Android has become somewhat laughable. Also, other than the antenna, every iPhone is essentially the exact same whether you buy it from AT&T or Verison or the Apple Store etc. There is no shitty Samsung or LG skin on the UI and no bloatware (other than maybe a single app preinstalled from your carrier such as the AT&T app which you can can easily uninstall in a matter of seconds). It integrates with other Apple products without needing much if any configuration.

Also, tons of people choose certain companies to buy from because of their status and reputation. That's how most industries work. Some people only buy American made cars, or only Chevy or only Honda. There's nothing wrong with brand loyalty especially when the brand is consistently delivering quality products to it's customers. iPhone isn't an arbitrary status symbol. Apple put years and years of effort into building up the reputation they have.

there are? what's the evidence for that other than a subjective impression of Apple iphone's inferiority and a lack of imagination as to other people's motivations?