Well, that's basically the core of Anaconda, and it's working for them.
That said, I've checked Anaconda's site, and while it used to be "Anaconda [Python] Commercial Distribution", "On-Prem repositories", "Cloud notebooks and training"... during the last year they've changed their product name to "Anaconda AI Platform", and all it's about "The operating system for AI", "Tools for the Complete AI Lifecycle". Eeeeh, no thanks.
not sure i hold out much long term hope for them either. both of these companies can eventually make money in a way that isnt shady - just not enough money to satisfy their VCs.
I dont think there is enough money in package registries to pay for all of the VC investment in astral.