Redmond, Wash. - Microsoft, which earlier this month confirmed plans to open Apple-like retail stores this fall, has signed leases for locations in Scottsdale, Ariz., and Mission Viejo, Calif.

A Microsoft spokesperson told CNET that the brick-and-mortar stores will help the company "directly connect" with the more than 1 billion people who use its products daily.

The stores will also respond to consumer demand for a simpler purchasing process, "great" technology, competitive prices and a knowledgeable sales staff, the spokesperson said.

The assortment will include brand-name laptops, mobility gaming and software from multiple vendors, CNET reported.

The Web site said the Mission Viejo store will be located in a strip mall that already houses an Apple store, confirming this month's pronouncement by COO Kevin Turner that some of the Microsoft sites would neighbor Apple locations.