Microsoft launched their first Microsoft Store last Thursday in Scottsdale, Arizona. With all the hoopla of the Windows 7 launch we thought we'd let that die down before posting a few details on Microsoft's new stores.
Microsoft Silverlight team member Tim Heuer posted a great overview of his own personal experience. According to Heuer he visited the store 4 days after the initial launch which saw people queuing to enter the store and grabbing free Zune HDs.
Upon first entering the store the logo is clearly visible and colourful, similar to Apple, Microsoft have opted for the logo and no mention of "Microsoft". It's clear the whole store is a copycat of Apple's retail stores but is this a bad thing? Apple has perfected its stores over the years and they clearly work.
The first store opened with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 9:30 a.m with 500 people waiting in line to excitedly enter the store (as shown below in the video). The store is kitted out with Microsoft Surface tables, giant screens across the walls, "gaming zones" where approximately 15% of the store is dedicated to Xbox 360 games and accessories. The store also sells Windows compatible laptops such as Dell, Toshiba, HP, Sony, Acer, Lenovo, etc and a variety of Microsoft hardware.
Copycat?
Microsoft have opted for an "answers desk" which is a clear comparison to Apple's genius bar. Microsoft also offers training sessions aimed at exploring Windows 7, to Zune HD features and understanding Office better. Once again these are similar to the sessions that Apple holds. Imitation is often the sincerest form of flattery and in this case I don't believe Apple will be flattered. The comparisons to the Apple Store will always stick but this shouldn't take away from the effort Microsoft has put into these upcoming stores. The walls are littered with exciting WPF applications that demonstrate products well.
According to Heuer he was most impressed with the employees who seemed to be knowledgeable and polite. The Mission Viejo store is due to open later this week (October 29).
Image Credits: Microsoft, Tim Heuer and Sean Hobson
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