- Windows 7 is actually pretty good. Those who were put off by Vista are, I think, being sold on 7 a lot easier
- The Linux UI experience still, IMO, isn't up the the level of a non-technical user. Microsoft and Apple have invested a LOT of time and money into UI and Linux needs to learn from some of their ideas.
- Apart from the UI things still aren't "slick" enough for non-techy users. Example; People make a big thing of package managers as being something awesome - however in my experience people dont find the Ubuntu one particularly intuitive.
- There is still too much techno-jargon within easy reach of users
I love Linux but it isnt yet a viable desktop for the consumer market.
Someone needs to charge for it; and push the funds into developing the UI. I think the uptake will be MUCH higher if people are paying, say, $30 for it (crazy huh?)