I think part of the reason these drains never get improved is because the "better" versions are all patented and manufacturer specific (they're also harder to find repair parts for because they're proprietary one offs instead of a "universal" design). American Standard had a really great take on this a few years ago, but I'm not sure if it's even still being made: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2vgBNw0xnYA
I think part of the reason these drains never get improved is because the "better" versions are all patented and manufacturer specific (they're also harder to find repair parts for because they're proprietary one offs instead of a "universal" design). American Standard had a really great take on this a few years ago, but I'm not sure if it's even still being made: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2vgBNw0xnYA
One other tip- get yourself one of these plastic drain clearing tools. You'll never have to disassemble the pop up again! It just slides past the drain plug and clears out the hair and other gunk: https://www.homedepot.com/p/THEWORKS-Drain-Cleaning-Tool-2-pack-PL171204/306535939