PC World: 10 Ways Microsoft’s Retail Stores Will Differ From Apple Stores

In case you haven’t been following, Microsoft is said to be opening up it’s own line of retail stores, similar to what Apple has done and been so successful at.  Personally I think it’s going to be an uphill battle for Microsoft to be able to match the shopping experience that Apple has been able to provide.  Clearly they are going to have to partner with some hardware makers for the actual machines to be used in any retail outlet, since Microsoft doesn’t make the hardware like Apple does.

Here are some links covering Microsoft’s move:

• cnet
• CNN Money
• Washington Post

Brennon Slattery over at the Today @ PC World Blog has posted a very humorous take on the 10 Ways Microsoft’s Retail Stores Will Differ From Apple Stores.  My personal favorite from the list:

7) Fashioned after Microsoft’s User Account Control (UAC) in Vista, sales personnel will ask you whether you’re positive you want to purchase something at least twice.

It will be interesting to see whether Microsoft can make the shopping experience any more pleasant or personal than just going to your local Best Buy to pick up a new PC.