Were a big time consumer economy. We spend money we dont have on shit we dont need. Apple knows this, hence they know people will buy a $400 iPad if they want it even if they are having trouble paying their rent.
Thats why countries like China depend on us more than many realize. We (as consumers) are the main driving force behind the Chinese economic engine. Despite what retards that have no clue about anything say, China is not and will not soon be a consumer economy, have a thriving middle class, etc.
The manufacturing world takes its direction based on what the US consumer wants to pay for.