tracker1 parent
+1 on this... I keep saying, I wish that System76 could work with Framework to sell a model with PopOS preinstalled and supported by System76. I'd pay an extra $200 just for that, not that everyone would be willing to pay extra since Framework is already at a bit of a price premium. Most other Linux vendors (Tuxedo, Slimbook, etc) seem to be mostly EU centered and based, which is a bit of a negative if you're in the US.
I don't think Linux users would pay for it. It would pretty much be a loss (support isna form of insurance--you have a pool of covered users, and they need not in aggregate cost more than the company takes in). And System76 needs to also change the firmware to support Linux (is why buying the Clevo model they co-designed and throwing Linux on it won't work like you hope.)
Plus, I suspect System76 would want to have a lot of control over the design that they would end up on the hook for.
If you want PopOS and/or System76 support, they're right there. You can just buy and use their kit.
Maybe Framework could be another System76 ODM, though.