I don’t believe you are necessarily entitled to that particular choice, no. However, I can be convinced. So, since you are the one positing that such a choice is an entitlement, I repeat my question: why? What is the source of this entitlement? Contractual? Deriving from statute? Natural law? Is everyone entitled to choices in every situation? Is every manufacturer required to allow me to customize every device in any way I want? Are they required to cede their rights under Title 17 of the U.S. Code?
What is your basis for saying that consumers have this right, and how far does this right extend?
Basis is that the purchaser has "title and ownership" of the device. I take note you interject that Title 17 "copyright law" is applicable. I suspect that it will be ruled not to be applicable if Apple attorneys are brazen enough to open the lid on that steaming pile. Owner cannot be "compelled" to do anything with their device under current U.S. law. California, or other states, may have laws covering this.
"macrumors.com" should not utilize technical legal phrasing. Especially without a statement revealing it to be their personal "uninformed opinion" and "not based upon published ruling."