If they develop the device they'll be responsible for production, QA/QC, sales, maintenance and support for something that will bring at best marginal return.
By pretending to be "open" about it they make it your problem, including but not limited to the likely presence of Stingray (IMSI catcher) imitations for intercept.
"Nothing to do with us, we just sell you minutes".
Yes, I think they are that cynical.
Biting the hand that feeds IT
