It really would not be big deal for people who know what they are doing and know how to follow instructions online. I had same 'dilemma' on my cheap tablet and it's android!! I think you (meaning amazon, etc) have to pay google to have it in your device.
Someone will always find a work around. Like how my google product less tablet was able to get one, I put it there myself.
It's a hassle for me. But ya most people will be deterred to buy it if they feel they can't live without youtube but whatever, Amazon is cheap then, not to pay google.
I thought the Amazon owner is a billionaire, but well, that's how they get richer, I guess.