I'll just comment on the occasional (and it does seem to be a tiny minority) instance of updates bricking systems. The PS3, particularly before the Slim removed the Install Another OS option, was in a position where people could have different OS installed, very varied setups, etc. - as a result, I'm not too surprised that by chance a few of those combinations caused issues with the Firmware updates.
Now, unlike say RROD, this is a small scale issue vs say an update bricking 30% of the install base (which you'd sure hear about in a hurry) and while unfortunate for those involved, really does seem like no more than individual bad luck and the difficulty of checking every possible PS3 status prior to release of the FW. A few times they have had a bit more trouble, for example recent issues with Uncharted freezing, but in those cases a point release has been put out very quickly. With the Slim actually closing the system off more, I'm curious to see how much this persists going forward - although for older PS3 the ability to have a varied setup will continue of course.
So TBH, apparent from the legitimate charge of completely changing their tack on PS2 BC (but not PS1 BC), I'd say Sony hasn't really done anything too horrible from a consumer point of view, mainly dropping some USB ports and card readers (which no-one seems to miss, although I use mine a lot so will be sticking with the Phat) and having a very high initial price (although, to be fair, at the time, if you did want an HD console and a BR player the PS3 was a good buy).
Try to be reasonable... its easier than you think...
