This is just another propagated myth by Apple users to promote distinguishing factors on an almost trivial level along with the relentless claims on symmetry and border sizes we had to listen to for years
In truth for many Android users it's not denial it's just they do not care or differentiate and prefer options, functionality and choices along with the familiar as this takes far more precedence
Same too for many Samsung UI users they see far more options way ahead of stock android or Apple so again inconsequential to them
The simple fact that many like the less is more appeal of stock android phones with amazing cameras that even Apple or Samsung struggle to compete which is testament to users want alternatives
Tarnishing all Android phones with the same brush is simply contradictory to the appeal of what diversity can bring to a more open OS for those that want more freedom of choice in many aspects
This does not detract that iPhone are equally a high end product but if you want to stay within your own brief for this thread I think you need to pose your point differently. Especially given the number of recent MR front page stories of apps falling over after IOS updates etc, there are even whole threads dedicated to not upgrading or the lack there of to roll back etc
This is just throwing stones in glass houses which you said you wanted to avoid
and not propagate stereotypic views we have all read 100's of times before
Even though my own personal preference/bent is towards current Samsung products that does not hinder my appreciation of others. Only last weekend I recommended the CFO of a major carrier here to stick with his IPhone for personal use even though it was noted by himself to be lacking when communicating with his subordinates. Will see this weekend if he wants to loan my spare Note 20 Ultra to see if its a better fit for business use