If yes, is there a derivative or version of this chip without the ARM core?
That said, this is the same issue if there are MPEG codecs, or HDMI related blocks. That's why AV1 codec and DisplayPort should be at least there, and actively prefered.
Yes, and it also contains other IP block (for example the USB from Synopsys) for which fees will be paid by the manufacturer. The Cortex-M0+ cores in the rp2040 are probably pretty cheap, so they don't impact the final price much.
> is there a derivative or version of this chip without the ARM core?
No. There might be future versions (they are, in general, looking at Risc-V stuff), but there isn't too much benefit.
> That said, this is the same issue if there are MPEG codecs [..]
No it isn't. The issue with those is that not only does the creator of the IP block itself need to get paid, but also the patent pool behind it, which is usually much more expensive. For most products from a smaller company (and even many larger ones), an AV1 hardware codec or a DisplayPort output will also be an IP block bought from someone else.
But indeed, would be good if those ARM free SOC would also be free-ed from HDMI and MPEG blocks.
Getting rid of ARM cores is only the middle of the journey for better hardware freedom, HDMI and MPEG codecs must be a target too.
From your GP:
> I guess I will avoid that chip and favor those without an ARM block then. Luckily there are many.
What would your personal top picks be for a use-case like the OP?
That's why it is critical to favor worldwide royalty free ISA like RISC-V. This is not a silver bullet but does a good enough job.
And the geopolitical issue of totalitarianism may bite one day by open source nuclear arm design.
It depends. May be paying ok. Not that apple cannot enjoy fruitful result even if somehow it must pay a bit on some core.