... > As for the MS tax, the blame is with Compaq, who don't offer a box > without OS, not with Microsoft. Why should Billy offer a refund when > Compaq doesn't bother to offer their stuff without Billyware? >
My understanding is that MS forces Compaq and the other big PC makers to include Windows on ALL machines in order to get their bulk discounts. I believe it was pressure from MS was at least part of the reason why Dell stopped providing preinstalled Linux systems. Of course the little boys -- local assemblers don't get the steep bulk licence discounts the likes of Compaq get so I guess there's less reason for them to force Windows down our throats. As I see it, there are only two ways things will get better: 1. The States win their battle for tougher penalties on Microsoft (possible) 2. The big PC makers gang up on Microsoft to force them to drop that clause in their contracts that forces Windows licences on a PCs they sell. (A snow-balls chance in hell on that one -- MS would retaliate by reducing their bulk discounts so they would either have to cut their profit margins or raise prices) Basically MS have got Compaq et al by the short and curlies just like everyone else. Kerry.
