From what I see plugin users are not even hiding the fact anymore.
I have seen several Ultimate guide videos with plugins on display where names are not hidden.

This has gotten worse over a long time and will just continue.

Simple thought process:
1. More people clear content thanks to plugins; SE sees higher clear numbers; SE balances new content to be more difficult.
2. People think they cannot keep up with the increased difficulty; More people will install plugins.
3. Plugins get more popular; More groups will demand them; Plugins get mandatory. Just try to find a group for UWU that does not use AM.

WoW had the same thing happening, except Addons are allowed and therefore the adoption rate was much higher.

I have to say when I started to raid in FFXIV, it was a breath of fresh air learning the game without training wheels. But the stale stench seems to be returning.