Speaking at the Worldwide Partner Conference, Microsoft chief operating officer Kevin Turner revealed details of the company's plan to set up shops in cities across the US, where customers will supposedly be able to get their hands on Microsoft hardware, including Xbox's and Zune's, and software through third-party products.
"As we progress on our retail strategy there will be scenarios where we have stores in proximity to Apple," said a Microsoft spokeswoman. "We are on track to open stores in the fall timeframe. Beyond that we have no additional details to share."
The company first hinted at its ambitions in February, when Microsoft hired David Porter, formerly of Dreamworks animation and Wal-Mart, to lead the retail push.
Microsoft has repeatedly said it does not plan to emulate the grandiose Apple stores that can be found in major cities around the world, where Apple fans often waited overnight in line to witness the grand opening.
_1.jpg)
.jpg)
