First I'll comment on the iFixit article. They say "the Apple Watch has intentional obsolescence built into it as it will become technologically redundant as processors become faster and apps are supported only by the newest models." iFixit is viewing obsolescence from the perspective of the ability to replace components with newer, better versions in the future. This process of hardware getting faster, etc. is not at all related to planned obsolescence.
As for the camera in the new MacBook, that is indeed a puzzling choice on Apple's part. That being said, I still don't believe that Apple's intent in choosing that particular camera for that device was driven by a plan to be able to sell another upgraded MacBook more easily next year. Apple has a corporate history of lagging behind the technology edge in some areas, and I view it as just another Apple decision that leaves the tech-savvy among us shaking our heads. I think it's just Apple being Apple, making decisions and telling us what they think we need in our hardware and software. A case of Apple knows best. And for the record, I often disagree with their decisions.
