15 years ago??

Right...but thats not exactly the same as typing "fastboot oem unlock" into adbshell and its done. Most of the people (and mods) here seem to think it is.

Bootloader Unlocking enables you to upload different Roms to the device. Rooting means having root access on the Rom, which allows processes to be run which otherwise wouldnt be possible. So, while unlocking is indeed a simple process on nexus devices, getting root is still not. In this case it involves flashing linux tools via an insecure bootloader.

Regular everyday people obviously can`t do the math. They would actually pay less if they bought a phone and a contract that suits their needs seperataly, insted of paying the ridiculous monthly fees for 2 full years that normally come with a subsidized phone.