@Pgallon,
You are correct that designers should consider simplifying complex user interfaces rather than adding complexity to them. As a software developer and designer myself, I consider Jony Ive's words with great importance: "True simplicity is derived from so much more than just the absence of clutter and ornamentation; it’s about bringing order to complexity." These words meant a lot to Apple when Jony Ive worked for them.
Perhaps it is the absence of Jony Ive that has led some of Apple's redesigns towards greater complexity rather than simplicity. From my perspective, the Photos app redesign was led by a desire to simplify the look of the interface, but missed out on the key concept of "true simplicity" since many of the menus and actions are only accessible through horizontal scroll views. In terms of looks, the new Photos app is beautiful, but is it useful?
As you know, this is a forum of Apple users communicating with other Apple users, so while we can discuss this, the best way to communicate your design intents is still directly to Apple (through the links I provided).
Please know that I understand your position.
Have a nice day!
