So I assume you buy Android phones from companies that don't keep their devices updated with the latest OS basically forcing you to buy a new phone if you want the latest OS/security patches.

Apple has traditional supported iOS devices for at least 3-4 years with OS updates.

My old first generation iPad 2010 can still get older versions of current apps from the App Store.

Only when those apps haven't been pulled. Try and buy some of those apps from a fresh account. Not possible. One can literally not install GoodReader on an Ipad1 at this point.

Yes the app creator can pull an app or not allow older versions to be downloaded.

In my case, I came across my old iPad recently, reset it and was able to install Hulu, Netflix, Crackle, Google Drive, Plex, Spotify,and the CW app

Edit:

I was also able to download Apple's productivity apps -Pages, Numbers, and Keynote.

You are lucky.

There is a neat workaround for getting old apps onto an old IPad. 1) you can gift from one ipad to another, 2) you can install the older app if you have bought the newer version but it wouldn't install. I did this for a friend who bought an ipad but couldn't get Goodreader (no longer recommend) to install because they pulled the version that works on IPad1.

I think companies should be required to release the encryption keys or provide a way to install software on devices that are EoL. So many IPads got "recycled" that could have been put to better use.

I think Goodreader could do the world a great service by selling a version that installs on first gen IPads, they make pretty good budget ereaders for pdf content.