The model seems to work. Is there precedent for the alternative working out well?
I have been avoiding "IoT" in my home because I want stable 20+ year lifetimes for protocols and standards. I want to know that the outlets I hard-wire today will be controllable with whatever software I choose in 5, 10, 15 years. I want my thermostat to continue to have all its "smart" features for the lifetime of my HVAC system. I don't want separate "apps" for my washer, dishwasher, automatic water shut off, etc. I don't want Internet connectivity to servers that may be turned off at a manufacturer's whim to gatekeep features (or worse, basic functionality). The market is dysfunctional.
(Not IoT)
Maybe I'm making some category error here but I can think of dozens of protocols that do not require certification.
Perhaps the solution is to make the spec open but make using the trademark contingent on certification (much like USB, for example)
It "works" in the sense that it excels at separating implementors from their money and locking up end users in a cage, sure.