So, how hard is it to download WMP? Is it a free download? if so, it seems to me that this is a non-issue. Also, what about Realplayer or Quicktime? Sounds to me like the resellers are just being anal-retentive.
Unless they have a cable modem, European users are subjected to high charges for downloads. I used to do beta testing on a program that included a large number of German participants. They were constantly bitching about the enormous German phone-line charges that the beta-testing cost them. Their socialist phone corporation had stiff charges for local calls. I can well believe it.
Sure, you can download MS Media Player 10, but it's a large program, and it would probably cost a bundle for any Euro computer owner who had to use a phone modem.
It's not up to the resellers. Their job is to provide what customers want. If the customers don't want XP N, that's all the resellers need to know.
Nah, they don't want to do it because it's more work for them, with no apparent return. Put two copies of XP on the shelves, one with WMP and one without, and mark them at the same price. See which one sells more, and then you'll know why they don't want to carry two versions ;)