"Roy Schestowitz" <newsgroups@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx> wrote in message
news:1963094.xgZFmrgvNB@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
> Linux geek gets Dell to splash out for Windows
>
> ,----[ Quote ]
> | It's pretty difficult to buy a laptop without Windows these days. But
> | what if you have no intention of using it? The EULA for Windows XP has
> | this clause:
> |
> | "You agree to be bound by the terms of this EULA by installing,
> | copying, or otherwise using the software. If you do not agree, do
> | not install, copy, or use the software; you may return it to your
> | place of purchase for a full refund, if applicable."
> |
> | Technically, then, you should be allowed to send it back to your
> | place of purchase and get a refund. This is exactly what Dave
> | Mitchell, a systems admin, did.
> `----
>
> http://www.bit-tech.net/news/2006/11/09/Linux_geek_gets_Dell_to_splash_out_for_Windows/
> http://tinyurl.com/yf9cxb
>
> This isn't the first case which serves as precedence. It could evolve into
> something that's akin to tax returns. Those who stick with Windows are
> 'suckers' because they don't reclaim what they deserve.
While I take slight offence at your calling those who stick with Windows
"suckers", I think if there IS a how-to guide on getting the refund, then
this information should be available to everyone, to facilitate making a
choice between Windows and Linux.
Unfortunately, there doesn't seem to be such a how-to yet:
http://www.linuxworld.com/news/2006/110806-dell-windows-refund.html
<quote>
When Dell issued a refund for the copy of Microsoft Windows bundled on a
customer's laptop, it was neither a mistake nor a new policy, according to
Dell spokesperson Anne Camden.
"It appears this was a unique response for a customer based on the
individual circumstances of the customer's experience and request," she
wrote.
"Dell does not have an official program that accommodates the return of the
operating system. In general a customer would return the PC if unhappy with
any pre-installed software end-user license agreement (EULA), including the
operating system."
</quote>
I wish those who are "fighting" for refunds the best of luck. It's
unfortunate e.g. the government (or some other official body with some sway)
hasn't stepped in and straighten out the terms of the refund for the benefit
of all consumers.
- Oliver
|
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