Sony's "Fresh Start" Option Charges $150 to Remove Bloatware

What's the first thing I do when I get a computer from a major system building like Dell, HP or Sony? Well, actually, the first thing I do once I get it activated is make a system image. The second thing I do is wipe all the "bloatware" off the system. Bloatware is all the trialware and junk I don't want on the computer.

It's one of the most requested items that people wish they would be able to customize their PCs with ... "no bloatware" that is. Sony has gotten the message, but aims to make a profit off it it. You can request the so-called "Fresh Start" option, though only on the VGN-TZ2000 and VGN-TX2500 for now, and you have to pay $50 for the "privilege" (click image above to enlarge).

Wait, why I am saying it's $150? Well, to top it off, you also have to add Windows Vista Business and that adds still another $100. So you're really paying $150 to get stuff off your PC ... or rather, not put stuff on your PC ... that you don't want.

I suppose if a user wanted Vista Biz anyway you could say it was only $50, but let's be honest here ...

So should I say thanks? It's a start, but something like this should be available on all PCs, and for free. It's understandable why they charge for it, though, because OEMs get $ for sticking that "bloatware" on the PCs in the first place. But why add insult to injury by forcing an OS upgrade, too?

Update: According to reports, Sony has decided to remove the $50 charge. However, it's still there right now and thus unconfirmed - and I wonder if you still have to upgrade to Vista Biz to get it. That would still be an additional $100 for the privilege.