Pretty much, yeah.

Usually the only things loaded are FreeDOS and instructions for how to install an OS (and the laptop’s instructions/links to them online).

A bunch of companies had or have an agreement with MS not to sell hardware without an OS, FreeDOS was the workaround, basically loaded to get wiped.

MSI did it for sure, same with HP and I think Asus. Not sure how many still do it though. I haven’t bought premade new (including laptops) in quite some time.