Totally feel your pain. I personally don't think mac desktops are 'worth' it. They have too limited options/configurations/upgradability. I don't foresee them going back to easily upgraded devices anytime soon if ever, so you'll be left with whatever they offer is all you get to choose from and the mini seems like a red-headed step child at this point.
Over the years one develops a way of working and figuring out personal usage requirements, which in my case ended with no longer needing desktops. (last one was a G5 iMac)
The convenience to take along what is on my computer is perfect, even though one can access most everything from dropbox, iCloud or other cloud services.
Running 2 MBPs 2015 in clamshell mode with the freedom to add whatever display size I like and with nothing upgradeable past switching out the SSDs with 1TB versions everything else is hooked up to an OWC Thunderbolt 2 dock.
Used to have the "Pro" towers, but eventually was honest with myself and admitted I didn't need that type of power. Many users overthink or overstate what they "need" vs. what they are really using.
Couldn't do the 2016 MBP for all the known many reasons.
Also, again over the years the keynotes have become cumbersome to watch and I am no longer willing to waste time on minute changes or entire fields I have no interest in. (I know , just me
The summary at the end is just fine and in defense of ALL companies, there isn't so much new to invent in smartphones and lap tops.
Apple products are very well made and hold up for a log time, so I only replace what really dies or needs a version from this century. My iPad 2nd gen is still fine and I find myself reading more on my iPhone 6s Plus, so a larger iPad will eventually be in the cards.
I think Apple is leaving a lot of money on the table by not combining the mini with the aTV and get into gaming.
Home voice assistants are not for this old fart. I can still get up to switch off the light etc. etc.
To all who enjoy long presentations about stuff we know already from MR, have fun
