Hmm, maybe they are referring to a specific branding used on recent models, e.g. a "Windows on Snapdragon" sticker similar to "Windows 8 Ready" and stuff.

Linux laptops still tend to be special order or niche brands, but there is nice positive traction in that space.

This is quintessential MSFT. I have absolutely less than zero doubt that there is a informal/formal agreement that they're called such. They always pull this crap. And then their OEMs realize later that the "Windows 8 Ready" sticker is almost more of a pariah.