Microsoft to launch retail stores and copy Apple

Microsoft

The software behemoth Microsoft announced last week that it would launch it’s own retail stores. The software company who has been battling a bad public image mostly at the hands of creative marketing from Apple will be making a bold move during the worst recession since World War II. Microsoft is currently sitting on 20+ billion in cash and they can fight with Apple over market share. The only problem is Apple is currently sitting on 25+ billion in cash and a public image that keeps getting stronger.

Microsoft has been slow to keep up with Apple’s innovations and success but has copied Apple enough to stay in the game. This seems to be a trend for Microsoft who has taken advantage of the desktop market and up until this point had very little competition. Apple has been gaining steam lately and taking advantage of slick designs, mainstream appeal, creative marketing, and a great product that keeps users wanting more. I see Microsoft losing some market share to Apple in the next 5 years and seeing it’s Windows dominance lessen.Vista was a blow to Microsoft and will take a great OS to make users forget. Vista reminds me of Windows Millenium which everyone forgot about with the release of Windows 98.

Even though this might be considered a copy cat move it is a smart one. Having Microsoft products pitched by a biased salesperson should help Microsoft sway public opinion more. In the end though the proof is in the pudding and if you don’t put a superior product forward you will not be able to fool everyone. The public is getting smarter and since Apple is presenting themselves as a viable choice over Microsoft they are sure to gain some disgruntled Windows users.

Not everyone has the time or money needed to troubleshoot the numerous problems they encounter on Windows machines. Eventually the hassle free experience will win more people over. The fact that Apple has a store presence is a big plus for customers who can get a quick fix or diagnoses. I can only imagine how long that line will be like at a Microsoft retail store.

Regardless of who wins the battle, Microsoft or Apple, the consumer is the real winner in the battle. Competition is good for consumers and choice is king. Does anyone want to start a Orange or Grape computer company? We need more choices.