so what they’re really saying is they won’t give it away for free

How do you benefit from clinging to an untruth?

OP is objectively and demonstrably incorrect in a number of their claims. So your question is quite valid. Are they in sheer denial and this is a certain flavor of cope? Or are they actually intentionally spreading propaganda?

The difference between inflation and cost of living.

Glad to see they’ve adjusted for inflation, have they also adjusted for cost of living?

Edit: For anyone (such as OP) who is confused by these terms:

The difference between inflation and cost of living.

not sure if you’re being sarcastic, but if anything this news paints linux deployment in an even better light.