Microsoft Store coming next to San Diego, CA

Microsoft has settled on the next two spots for its nascent retail effort, with the software giant planning to open outlets in Denver and San Diego.

Those two locations will join Scottsdale, Ariz., and Mission Viejo, Calif., as the only places where one can experience the Microsoft Store in person, though Microsoft also has an online version of the store.

The Denver and San Diego stores are expected to open this summer, according to a source, with other outlets likely by fall.

Microsoft’s retail approach takes a lot of cues from Apple, with a heavy focus on presentation, as well as a theater for training and an answer bar where customers can get technical help. There are also some unique-to-Microsoft touches like the tabletop Surface computers, Xbox displays, and a line of flat-screen displays creating a video wall that rings the store.

The company sells PCs from a variety of makers, though the systems come with a “Microsoft Signature” collection of software found only at Microsoft’s online and retail stores.

Info provided by: CNET News