What I had in mind was what happened in the last 4 years, inflation cannot justify everything. New computers are faster, better, and, based on my limited experience, cost far less than 4 years ago. No so cameras (mirrorless are more or less computers).
As to development costs: the R&D salaries haven't changed much, tooling costs, testing cost can be considered partly a reason for the raise.
On the other hand, automation of lens and camera production has been raised to an extremely high level, certainly resulting in lower manufactoring costs. I'm quite sure that sales prices are dictated by what customers are ready to pay. Just look at the Swiss watch industry, sales prices are pure fantasy (Rolex watch production is almost 100% automated, and retail prices have nevertheless exploded).
I didn't intend to criticize Canon, I just believe that, in my opinion, the readiness of a shrinking market to swallow such high prices isn't that evident. Time will tell...
My fear is that we could assist to a "Leicalike" development, cameras unfortunately made more and more for status seekers or collectors, and less for average income photographers.
Anyway, I want that 14 mm TSE
, and have started saving!