A leaked image of a potential Microsoft store setup.The interesting thing to me is that Apple has all these stores in which it not only sells its small products and accessories, but also has a main focus and huge attraction for its own branded computer. Microsoft's decision to open stores makes me wonder if maybe they have something similar in the works? Perhaps, Microsoft has finally developed an entire computer with it's own Microsoft name. From all the reports and press releases from Microsoft regarding these stores, it sounds like they are using it as a sort of market research. They keep emphasizing that they hope to learn about customers and be able to use such information for their future development. Obviously the near release of Windows 7 will be a perfect introduction to some of the early rising stores , as well as the new coming Windows Live and Windows Mobile.
Another leaked image from the same presentation of what a Microsoft store may look like.Microsoft has mentioned store openings to begin as early as fall of this year, and since we seem to have officially entered fall, (at least according to the weather) openings should be appearing pretty soon. More stores are supposed to be coming in 2010, but Microsoft's attempts to open a few stores with the release of Windows 7 in a couple weeks and the upcoming holiday season will be beneficial for the company. Microsoft is planning to open some stores right next door to Apple stores, knowing that the competition is going to be present, and knowing that they need to take it head on. After hiring ex-Wal-Mart executive, David Porter to help get the stores up and running, Microsoft is feeling very confident that they will not only survive in the store seller's market, but that they will also compete and strive against the competition.
It's pretty interesting how Microsoft plan to open right next to Apple's. Competetion is intense and it kinda reminds me of the good old competetion between Subway and Quizno's subs.
ReplyDeleteAs you say it is interesting that Microsoft waited so long to get on this band wagon. They always seem quick to jump in the market with thier copy of someone elses product, with a Microsoft twist. I remember reading quite a while ago that Microsoft wanted PC manufactures to sell "Black Boxes" with a specific set of hardware. Part of the prorblem with Plug and Play has always been legacy hardware and other unexpected devices. Microsoft believesd that by controlling the hardware in a pc they would have a more solid system. Which, is probably true but, I know I cringed at the thought of buying a Microsoft PC. However, I wouldn't buy a MAC either but for different reasons. Interesting article.. I don't see myself visiting one of thier stores though.
ReplyDeleteTerry, I've began to catch on to the fact that you don't really like Microsoft, and this comment only further proves my point! lol My question to you now though is what DO you like? You don't like Mac and you don't like Microsoft. Are you a Linux guy or something?
ReplyDeleteMatt,
ReplyDeleteGreat post. I had no idea this was going on. I'm so out of the IT news loop. This feels so "apple" and seems strange given they are not a hardware business. Sound like a new direction for them (copy cats!).
Thanks!
I am not so sure this is a good move for Microsoft, unless they have bigger plans like you say. Apple does well with their stores, but they have a bigger product line that captures many different markets. The one thing that would be nice about a Microsoft store is if you actually had informed workers that could actually help you with Microsoft specific questions or concerns.
ReplyDelete