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.
