I've still got no idea what flexibility you think has been lost.

Vista does require more resources, but provides lots of extra features too - such as per-application volume settings, file previews in Explorer windows, enhanced Task Manager, searchable Start menu, etc.

To me that seems like more flexibility, and increased ease of use.


The only hint you've given is "100 interactions", which to me implies that you don't like UAC... but with appropriately designed apps that only requires one extra action.