[sdflhasjd]

>During boot, for example, even modern Windows boxes show a BIOS screen followed by a brief blinking cursor before the Windows graphics mode takes over.

This hasn't really been the case for more than 10 years now. EFI based systems will boot without changing display modes. Some hobby custom PCs might have compatibility modes enabled, but any laptop or prebult system is going to go from logo to login without flickering.

[bigstrat2003]

It also has nothing to do with Windows. Apple controls both the hardware and the OS, Microsoft controls only the OS. If the OEM decides to have the system boot up in text mode, there's nothing Microsoft can do.

[johannes1234321]

Microsoft has (had?) quite some power over OEMs and could set requirements on the system. A system not compatible to windows won't see much sales.

However Microsoft values compatibility, which probably is in conflict with requiring more.

[int_19h]

Microsoft does set such requirements, which is why today your typical Windows box with a "certified" sticker will boot directly into graphics mode.