well, even if one has up to date kernel forever after that alone does not mean much. Just like AC unit on deserted tropical island.
Bottom line is that while linux on deskop provides solution for almost any need and in most cases you can use SW that is written in something totally different than the DE itself (with pulling the whole other DE but it works) that is not the case with linux for mobile. In fact, it's quite the opposite
While I do understand importance of projects like this I'll still rather accept device with bolobs and stuff that can do tasks on a daily basis than one which is free from everything, apps included. Not everything is a turd over the fence just like not everything is a pure gold over here.