[quesera]

Good points, and there is precedent right in the Apple ecosystem.

I think it's brilliant that "last year's model" (iPhone, iPad) drops down the good-better-best chain with every product refresh. No new R&D or tooling, still a great product.

There will always be a steady supply of last years' models. And customers to buy them. Apple just has to feel confident that a $700 M1 isn't cannibalizing their $1200 M2s or the upcoming M3s.