Regarding #1, perception does play a lot into it but none of us are devs so no one can provide evidence to counter the claim that AI did not receive advantages using code, programming, or game data, we have to rely on observation/perception.
Today, after the update, was the first time I observed (pvp arena particularly) a Leia fire less than 3 times, Daka didn't revive a fallen, and Boba/HK stayed dead after first death. Maybe I was on the bad end of a month+ long RNG cold streak, maybe there weren't really "advantages" but some bugs fixed, maybe I only selectively remembered, idk.
Whatever the circumstances, was much more enjoyable seeing Leia shoot once and have a chance to down her before losing two of my team.
Now let's rethink GW retreat and we're all good...lol