alt Hacker NewsRadical idea many won't like, but if I were CEO of Dell I'd consider it: buy Framework.
Then don't ruin it. Put real resources behind it. Think of it as almost a reverse merger, not financially but spiritually.
It would make them unique and relevant again.
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We need more laptop makers not fewer.
Dell does not have a "spirit." Nor do they need one to survive. They simply need to be competitive and once again create desirable products.
The fact that we have more competition is part of the reason you're seeing this admission in the first place.
I have a Framework laptop. It was expensive for the specs, but I really appreciate the philosophy of openness. I have replaced both the keyboard and battery, which was easy and painless. At least for Dell, I don't think Framework's target market is a fit for acquisition like Alienware's was. Although, Dell is big enough that they could probably build a competing brand themselves. It would be great for consumers if they did.
I kind of like your idea, except I wouldn't trust Dell not to ruin it.
I haven't bought a Framework, but I wouldn't wish ill on them either.
Spiritually, Dell can only desecrate Framework. Nothing good would come out of that, I feel quite certain.