As a user, I actually like Apple devices and iOS much better than Android, but I also want them to be more open. I want to install browser extensions freely and I want that the app distribution (quasi) duopoly gets broken. I also want full control over my phone's network activity.

Apple needs to be forced to enable alternative app stores, like Microsoft got forced to offer alternative browsers, because they will never do it on their own.

Since these issues are increasingly covered in the media and people are waking up to these issues, I am optimistic that things will change for the better in the near future.

I somehow imagine that is a less realistic an expectation.

Why? Are you tied to Apple and unable to leave?

I don't buy Apple devices, and so am not affected by their restrictions.

Then your preexisting boycott makes no difference to the appstore.

Yes, I'm tied to Apple and unable to leave.

Even if for the simple reason that I find other OSes and devices that run them shit in comparison.

Well, MacOS gives that unfettered access, and I still find it better than Windows or Linux. :) Even after years of neglect by Apple

No, they're shit because manufacturers cheap out on the hardware and furthermore install crapware themselves.