[still_grokking]

Most client PC are still running on Microslop Windows.

They are, as always, using Windows to sell all their other crap, especially Azure and 365. Things like their AD or office tools are tightly integrated into the cloud so you realistically can't even use the one without using the other.

[avhception]

At work, we needed a PC for a Linux-based Webkiosk the other day. The computer proposed by the colleague who actually orders stuff comes with a Windows license. I said we don't need that. A fruitless, lame effort was made to locate a substitute w/o a Windows license. I renewed my protest, but the feeling that the problem is me was already floating in the air. I gave up. We purchased a Windows license to run Linux. For the umpteenth time. It's like a Microsoft tax on PCs.

[al_borland]

Those OEM licenses do seem quite cheap. I think it was Dell who gave an option for a while. To remove the Windows license and have Ubuntu instead only saved $10.

It was low enough where I think most buyers questioned if it would be worth it to have the license just incase.

[mwwaters]

I’ve heard the actual OEM cost is offset by the manufacturer getting paid for all the bloatware included.

[rini17]

Kiosk can probably be done with rpi.

[avhception]

From a CPU / GPU standpoint? Yes. From a "I need to constantly replace SD cards or netboot the weird firmware" standpoint? I'd rather not.

[account42]

Yeah, this kind of crap is exactly what antitrust laws are supposed to prevent but governments don't care.