New Microsoft stores with 'Guru Bars'

Microsoft will open new retail stores specifically designed to compete with Apple stores later this year in the US.

The stores will sell laptops in addition to Microsoft and third-party software, Zunes, and Xbox 360 games and consoles.

The first will be in shopping centres in Mission Viejo, California and Scottsdale, Arizona. The Shops at Mission Viejo is already home to an Apple store. The other location, Scottsdale Fashion Square, does not have a competing Apple shop.

News of the store strategy was leaked on Gizmodo who obtained a detailed Powerpoint presentation showing a fit out bearing a striking resemblance to the Apple Store look."Essentially, Microsoft is taking the best elements from the Apple Store, Sony Style and other "flagship" stores," Gizmodo said.

The Microsoft stores will feature a "Guru Bar" where customers can ask for technical advice. Apple Stores feature a service area known as the Genius Bar.

Apple, however, is not the only source of inspiration. The leaked Powerpoint document also says that the Microsoft stores will be available to host birthday parties - a service with which McDonalds has a long association.

For slides from the leaked ppt showing design concepts for the new stores see http://gizmodo.com/5322328/leak-inside-the-microsoft-store-with-wall+sized-screens-and-the-answers-bar/gallery/?skyline=true&s=x