I confirm that experience. The first iPad in particular only got a couple years of updates. https://iosref.com/ipados

I don't really regret those purchases, but that's me. I was an early adopter, not a regular customer by any stretch.

Never say never... I got the first generation iPad, and was happy that I did. But then, it was not that expensive. But yes, especially with such a new product category, you really want to wait a few generations, if you want to get the best product for your money. Just look how quickly iPhones evolved and this Vision Pro is even more groundbreaking.

I got a few years use out of my first-gen iPad and Apple Watch - bought the iPad on release day, the Watch several months in.

That felt pretty reasonable given the cost for each.

I don't disagree with your sentiment for the Vision Pro, but can't agree for the iPad or Watch.

First Gen iPhone, iPod, iPad, Apple Watch, Mac Mini, iMac (all form factors) they were all amazing and had very few problems.