The O/FCI limits are a CYA on the part of the OEM; we all know that. We have plenty of evidence that both the lube and the filter have zero idea how old they are. The OEM durations are set at the lowest common denominator.
Severity has very little to do with actual wear, I'm learning. I've seen and studied, quite literally, well over 10,000 UOAs and see no real correlation for such claims. And if correlation is not there, then causation is absent, too. Again - it's a CYA move by the OEM. I am currently working on first-hand studies for my MGMs that will bring this to light. Severity is over-blown. About the ONLY thing I would concur that could be an issue is severe ingestion of fine dust; but a good air filter that is left in place will take care of that.
What the OEMs know for sure is that a fresh filter and lube change won't really hurt an engine. And since they do not bare those costs, they don't really care how much you pay to keep their warranty intact. Some OEMs are realizing that it's good policy to safely extend the OCIs. I'm not talking about wildly overrunning them, but safe extensions. The IOLMs are a step towards really managing the sump, rather than just having some silly arbitrary number.
I will accept that the OEM has a TSB out for using the OEM filter for start-up rattle, but I would ask this of the OEM:
Just what exists in your filter that solves the rattle, that other good filters don't have? What feature is in your can, that does not exist in another brand? Silicone ABDV? What? Come on; lets be serious here. That, too, is just a ploy to sell more OEM stuff. I am supposed to believe that the OEM filter magically solves an issue that a PureOne, TG, FU, D+ or some other good filter would not? Puh-leeze .....
If the OEM filter is so darn great, then someone please cut one open and let's examine the magic for all to see!