It is a bug right enough

http://blogs.zdnet.com/Bott/?p=271

For once, the OEM system scores over the Retail DVD

“This issue apparently only affects those who install Windows Vista using retail media. For the 90% or more of the Vista customer base who are getting OEM machines with Windows Vista preinstalled, this won’t be an issue, as OEM activations are tied to the system BIOS and activation status is only affected if you swap out a motherboard.”

Elaine