I don't disagree with your first point, that it's not still extremely useful despite its flaws. I absolutely use it to build project outlines, write code snippets, etc.
Your overall conclusion though seems a little free of context. Average people (i.e. my mom googling something) absolutely do not have the wherewithal to keep track of the various pros and cons of the underlying system that generates the magical giant blue box at the top of their search that has all the answers. They are being deliberately duped by the salesmen-in-chief of these giant companies, as are all of their investors.
Your overall conclusion though seems a little free of context. Average people (i.e. my mom googling something) absolutely do not have the wherewithal to keep track of the various pros and cons of the underlying system that generates the magical giant blue box at the top of their search that has all the answers. They are being deliberately duped by the salesmen-in-chief of these giant companies, as are all of their investors.