If you realise you're now locked into the Apple ecosystem don't you want to do anything about it? It's very risky, it is your point of weakness.
The benefits have far outweighed any inconveniences for me in nearly 2 decades as a customer.
Doesn't mean there aren't issues, but in general I am very happy with the ecosystem.
Anyway this gets away from my original point. $1k is not a lot of money for what a smartphone is and the role it plays in our lives (which is only ever increasing).
It's silly to skimp on something so integral that you'll likely have for 3-5 years (or more!). All for what? Saving $500? This is why the high end smart phone market won't be impacted as sharply as you're predicting. People understand this.