> I don't think the average consumer is thinking about junkware nor physical design

Probably not, but a zero junkware/zero carrier meddling policy is a major contributor to the brand's premium image, which makes the whole lineup more desirable. The iPhone is an invariable, singular product no matter how it's obtained, even if it has different price points.

By contrast Samsung, etc undermine themselves by trying to squeeze out pennies anywhere they can. That's the behavior of a commodity, not a premium brand.