> - that a bunch of users won't jump ship if Apple stagnates for 5 years

This is the most unlikely proposition, given how Apple has managed to be a decade behind and still very profitable.

Besides that, having a Claw-like AI with full access to your phone is surely a recipe for disaster. IMO Apple is being justifiably cautious in staying an spectator, looking busy, and waiting to make a deal with the winner of the chatbot wars.