Pop-up flash

[englishpremier]

Why do these still come with DSLRs?

In their original form without any modification (e.g diffuser or home-made bounce card) aren't they practically useless?

 

[englishpremier]

Fair enough I guess it's better than nothing, but I better everyone here either sticks some scotch tape over it or uses card to bounce it.

If manufacturers are going to include it, why not either a) allow it to tilt (expensive) b) defuse it (cheap), c) provide a bounce card (cheap)

Just curious really. I don't think the pop-up flash has changed much if at all in 20 years.