Apple probably views the product as the privilege to develop and publish apps.

I can confirm this. Have a relative that works for Apple. Made the mistake of complaining in front of her about their take on sales (they make six-figures annually from my app). She went off on how much they give us (including Xcode) for the privilege of having an app on their phones.

Still don't have a contact there. Would have thought I would at least get someone there to talk with if issues come up.