Microsoft To Open Retail Stores

It's been going around for awhile, but CNET is reporting today that it's legit, Microsoft will open storefronts to push their gear.

Microsoft confirmed on Wednesday that it is planning to open its first stores this fall, with at least some of the locations likely to be right near an Apple store.

"As we progress on our retail strategy there will be scenarios where we have stores in proximity to Apple," a representative told CNET News. "We are on track to open stores in the fall time frame."

The fall timing is not surprising. One would assume Microsoft would want to have the stores open in time for Windows 7's October 22 retail launch and for the holiday selling season.

It was this past February when we first learned that Microsoft brought in an ex- Wal- Mart man in David Porter to head up their retail strategy...

Microsoft Corp. today announced that David Porter will join the company as corporate vice president of Retail Stores. He will lead Microsoft’s efforts to create a better PC and Microsoft retail purchase experience for consumers worldwide through the development and opening of the company’s own retail stores. Porter will report to Microsoft Chief Operating Officer Kevin Turner. He is joining Microsoft from DreamWorks Animation SKG, where he was head of worldwide product distribution.

So now the nerds on both sides of the coin will have their way. We can have water balloon fights from across the street, where Zune's and iPods will be tossed around like candy. Let the shenanigans begin!