I don't want the software. I want a naked PC. Hardware only. No software. Dell did have a policy of making "naked PCs". Now, if I buy a naked PC from Dell, I owe M$ a royalty. Explain to me how I owe M$ anything, when I haven't acquired any M$ licenses, and have just walked away with a hardware box -- a commodity. Again, how does M$ have the right to interject itself into a negotiation between me and Dell when M$ was not party to this negotiation?
You have it backwards.
Dell and Microsoft have a contract.
According to that contract, YOU have NO right to interject yourself into IT. They were first to agree. YOU are left to go with the program, or shop elsewhere.
I dont see what is so difficult to understand. Before you buy a loaf of bread, the Bread Maker has entered into dozens of contracts with suppliers that you have NO right to amend. All you can do is go elsewhere, if you dont like where the bread maker got the flour, the eggs, the salt, you name it. You buy the loaf, as described by the VENDOR, or you dont. It is that simple.
YOU are injecting yourself into THEIR contract. You blame Microsoft, but is it not Dell who will not sell you a naked PC? Who are YOU to demand that Dell sell you anything, much less a naked PC? If you do not like Dell's product buy something else. Hell, buy a Mac. hehe. Can you buy a naked Mac?