For some examples, look at the impression of Microsoft and Windows when it comes to quality. It is only now starting to improve, with gigantic efforts from Microsofts side. Another example is Linux and usability, which have constantly gotten better (maybe still not good enough, but that's better left for another thread) but still many see Linux as "advanced" and only for power users. These are not perfect examples, of course.
What I mean is that I think it's bad strategy on Apple's part (if they're doing this deliberately), especially considering the resources they have at their hands. I wouldn't be surprised if Apple could increase it's desktop market share further by positioning themselves as high quality. However, it's a reputation they are losing fast.
