That’s actually the definition of a product. To create something for specific use cases. That’s not an Apple problem/issue.
Sure, I could use my Toyota Camry (iPad) to haul lumber - but it’d make more sense to use a truck (MacBook) that was designed for those use cases.
In your analogy, it's like a truck is clothed as a Camry but it really needn't be.
I guess it's the difference between a geek's and generalist's viewpoints.
Now clearly the hardware is different too. But I think the whole “appliance” thing is software.
Maybe refining the argument to: It’s a Camry with the same horsepower as the truck?
Funny thing I was at the hardware store today looking at modern trucks and was laughing to myself that they seem so much more car-like than when Steve Jobs made that comment. They have pretty interiors with cup holders and infotainment centers. And cars these days have horsepower approaching trucks. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
Why are people trying to use a tool it wasn’t designed for?
Eg the iPad does not have a built in keyboard. Why are people trying to use it to write long form essays/books when it’s designed default keyboard is on display - and then they get upset at Apple.
And that's without acknowledging the keyboard they sell!