One of Dell's major problems is Microsoft. In order to really bet on the future, they need to just take the hit on MS's OEM Windows prices and to start offering more selection again in terms of OS choices. That and offer more configuration options again like in the past (graphics cards, OS, and so on) and reduce the number of SKUs that they have (e.g. I don't really see much of a difference between Alienware and XPS aside from looks). They need to start catering to the 20% of the market again, instead of 80%-100% which reduces their focus.
Dell has tried offering Linux on laptops: the sales are too low and the costs too high for it to be a viable business. (You can get whatever you want on servers.)
Dell might like to offer OS X on laptops but Apple won't allow it, even if Dell buys its OS at retail.
> offer more configuration options again
Dell offered a load of options when it built desktops in its own factories. Most laptops (including Macs) are built in huge factories in China owned by Foxconn (Hon Hai), Quanta, Compal, Wistron, Pegatron etc, so configuration is generally not an option. (Or not at a price people are willing to pay.)
> Dell has tried offering Linux on laptops: the sales are too low and the costs too high for it to be a viable business.
Well it's no surprise since the configuration options were extremely limited. Also the available specs were really crappy. There wasn't an XPS or Alienware option.
> so configuration is generally not an option. (Or not at a price people are willing to pay.)
Well then what differentiates Dell from anyone else?
