smeg

Yes, it’s a thing, but not centralized with the Linux development team or anything.

For example: Linux for ROG developed all of the drivers and software to take full advantage of the Asus ROG gamer laptop series

I’m not really sure of the significance here. Can it be explained by changes in firmware or kernel features?

Increasingly across many markets, companies are not targeting average or median consumers. They’re only chasing whales, the people who can pay the premium. They’ve decided that more mid tier customers aren’t worth it – just chase the top. It also means a lower need for customer support.