I cbf looking up the exact time lines, but Magic Square and Transform Element have both released a G1 cartoon accurate Optimus in anticipation I believe of Takara's MP44.
Fans Toys Soundwave is back on despite an MP Soundwave reissue. The third party co's have been pushing the envelope for years now, I can't see why Hasbro would care all of a sudden?
Anyway, Hasbro have also dodged more than their fair share of licensing fees and stolen existing IP by changing a tail light here & a bonnet scoop there. Just look at all of the not-Lamborghini's floating around