I don't have a problem with them using up the spare slots.
I do have a problem with the AIB partner cards being so long that it is difficult to fit them in the average case.
The FE 4090 has a length of 304mm which is fair enough, AMD have had cards that long for many years like the HD 5970.
The AIB cards where they are so much longer is a problem for PC cases that were never designed for it.
I'm all for chunky coolers but the 40 series is taking the ****, the GB 4090 OC is massive, when companies increase cooler size to make you think the price jump is worth it-the 3080 FE looks tiny in comparison!
It's off putting when you realise I'd be more inclined to live with coil whine rather than going through all the hassle of possibly having to keep a product that's maybe a hassle to fit or scratch/damage it trying to get it in/out the case.
Option 1
It
just fits the space it's too sit in, but scratch it in the way in/out, it's not going to be accepted for a refund.
Option 2
Step 1: remove CPU cooler to angle a GB 4090 OC into the case without scratching/taking a chunk out your £1700+ GPU.
Step 2: fit GPU support bracket
Step 3: refit CPU cooler.
Step 4: test performance uplift/software features/coil whine...
If everything is ok, it's not too much hassle, but if I don't get the value/quality I'm expecting
Step 5 remove GPU support bracket.
Step 6: remove CPU cooler to angle a GB 4090 OC out the case without scratching/taking a chunk out your £1700+ GPU.
Step 7: refit CPU cooler and put your original GPU back in.
Step 8: box it all back up, post it off and wait for hopefully a hassle free refund.