[jjj123]

Firmware and software that influences user experience is absolutely valid for a design discussion.

Prioritizing ease of connection was a design decision, and not one that’s inevitable (see a dozen other duly wireless earbuds that don’t do it as well).

[jessriedel]

I agree that if the prioritization decision was made as a trade-off then this could be a question of design, but something would need to be said about that. Saying "I like the design of my car because it goes fast" doesn't really make sense unless you bring up what was changed (e.g., the aerodynamics, or the missing backseats, or whatever).

[jjj123]

You think a car going fast (faster than most others) is not part of the designed user experience of that car?

[jessriedel]

Speed is part of the user experience, and good user experience is the goal of, and usually relies on, good design. But the result -- speed -- is not itself design. Otherwise there would be no distinction between good products and good design.