Then why kill the goose that's laying the golden eggs?
WotC laid out a lot of resources in R&D for fourth edition.
I think the want to recoup that before they relax a little on the IP reigns. Who knows maybe they will write a less restrictive companion after they get their money.
I bought fourth edition for the digital reason. All the rules are going to be online and you will be able to meet and play D&D online. So far I'm disappointed. I hope I don't continue to be disappointed by the way the whole Digital Initiative goes.