It doesn't really matter why they are doing it.

Just based on sales patterns of PCs and the last two windows releases indicates that higher spec machines at lower prices get released... this is because MS wants to sell as many OS's and the manufacturers will want to sell as many machines so they will comply with the new standards... in effect it is like the entire market is one giant bulk purchase discount.

Of course it works much better with competition... like when Sony and MS both have brand new consoles on the market and Xmass is coming... so watch out for the end of this year for Xbox 360 and PS3 to drop in price and/or have value package deals.

So next years January sales should be good for computer gamers.