No one is comparing apples to apples here. Same pump mechanically, but the AI one has wireless control and integration with MyAI, Mobius, and Apex. The ZKSJ one is wired only. It is not a rip off, it is as
@MartinM mentioned, It is "value added." The OP should of said
"If you like the pump but do not need all the bells and whistle’s, you can get that pump much cheaper."
It is not a ripoff, it cost money for a company to to R&D, chips, software upgrades etc. And they are in the business to make money for the parent company Aperture, otherwise they will get removed. In the eyes of capitol investment companies, there is a lot of overlap in the companies Aperture owns. This all has to be kept in perspective.
Covid is over, The massive profits and business that has come from it has ended. Its 6am at the club and the lights have come on. People have to go back to work now.
Honk if you understood my 2am ramblings....