Yeah, if you’ve haven’t heard already the software giant is opening shops nowadays. Why do you need to sell an operating software at a retail outlet you may ask? Well Microsoft has been expanding its universe lately if you haven’t noticed, here are a list of items in their portfolio apart from the Windows OS and Office 365: mobile devices (from the acquisition of Nokia phones) pc peripherals, Surface tablets, X Box gaming consoles, box games, smartband and soon the HoloLens. All need a spanking boutique space for all to see now wouldn’t it.

At the Windows Store no that’s reserved for the online version, okay the Microsoft Retail Store at Westfield San Francisco, everything listed above were on display (except the HoloLens), plus partner devices from Lenovo, HP, Asus, to HTC and Blu Mobile Phones, customers could experience these devices with friendly store hands ever ready to assist. Is it similar to Apple Store? You can be the judge of that I’ve taken some of pictures for you.

Personally I don’t think so. Firstly for me its about time we had a concept store like this, walking into Low Yat or Digital Mall or any computer stores is a nightmare for me and for some folks I know especially the not so tech savvy sort, either you encounter an occasional pushy sale assistant or one that hawks every move you make in the store. The product arrangement and the display at these places are haphazard too, could be retail space is expensive and the shopkeeper tend to stack and crowd everything together to get maximum square feet for the money. And theres the “what’s your budget?” questions even before I open my mouth, coupled with lack of forthcoming answers to questions like on warranty, why your signage is removed? It always a disaster for me. The Microsoft Store on the other hand has an inviting feel, open concept, devices neatly arranged, clear signages and pleasant store assistants this is the kind of retail store that will make me step inside even if I’m not shopping for any tech products. Tech gadgets need to be made accessible and sexy and the MS store clearly has done so.

Sydney is the first store outside US and Canada, we hear it’s along the same street as the Apple Store (just to let you know). And PC.com just received invite for the store’s opening here in KLCC next week.