I have a hard time having any sympathy for anyone who complains that a vendor hasn't given them a "free upgrade" even if they purchased something 2-3 months BEFORE the upgrade was released (as I've seen posted here a couple of times).
Give me a break - the vendor (Apple/Microsoft/IBM etc) are in business to make money. They give reasonable rules for upgrades. They have the right to set the rules. Put yourself in their shoes... would YOU be giving away free hardware/software to someone who bought 2-3 months ago? (Again reference to those complaining about hardware upgrades - 2-3 months after they bought theirs!)
You go into ANY purchase knowing that something better may come out tomorrow (especially with computers and software!) - Ever buy something only to find out it goes on sale tomorrow? Happens all the time - that's life! The stores set up reasonable rules for getting that new price - but if you're outside the rules most likely your out of luck.
SadSwitcher: It is NOT Apple's fault you purchased before the date of the announcement - especially if you KNEW that Tiger was coming in the first 1/2 of the year (they told you that much). It isn't their responsibility to tell you when they are making announcements - just like stores don't tell you that the item you're buying today is going on sale tomorrow. I can tell you that Apple employees are not told in advance of any announcements so it isn't a lie when they give you their opinion.
Take responsibility for your actions and you'll feel better about your life.
That's my opinion and I'm sticking to it