Microsoft’s most recent imitation of the Apple experience has proved to be nothing short of blatant and shameless. Most readers – at least those fortunate enough to live near an Apple Store – are familiar with the Apple experience; the uniform, modern minimalist decor, tables of Apple technology waiting to be played with, the friendly “Genius” staff wanting to help, and shelves of software and accessories. Through their retail outlets, Apple has even turned the annoyance of waiting in line into an experience that shouldn’t be missed.
Those less fortunate, and too far away to shop Apple in person, can still visit the online Apple Store and get a feel for what the real-life version is like. The color scheme, vast selection of Mac products, and simplicity of the online store mimic the retail Apple Store experience. Starting last week, so does Microsoft.
First, Microsoft revamped their online store so it now includes “great hardware paired with a finely-tuned selection of Microsoft Signature software,” including an array of popular PC brand laptops and desktops. Fine, no big rip-off there. But in case you thought I was being hyperbolic about the imitation, check out the newly opened Microsoft retail store in Scottsdale (Arizona). Notice the almost-exact store layout and primary-color t-shirted Geniuses — called ‘Gurus’ — eager to help. Some sources are also reporting on the hiring of former Apple Store employees and executives for Microsoft’s not-so-new venture.
It even had Apple Store-esque lines outside.
Still think that I’m exaggerating? Watch this video and prepare to be a little creeped out.
I wonder how much they paid those people to wait in line and pretend to be excited.
Wow, even down to the hanging name tags and bright colored shirts.
I swear that looks like an Apple iPhone “App” advertisement on display as the person recording the video walked in among the cheering (annoying?) crowed.
More proof that Gates and Ballmer have no original ideas.
Not a surprise at all. Gates and Ballmer have not had an idea since ‘the look and feel of windows’ was first introduced- oh wait- that wasn’t theirs either. Some place between ‘Monkey see, monkey do’ and ‘Imitation is the highest form of flattery- is a desperate Ballmer and a Gates who has been crapping his diaper since AAPL stock cracked 20 per share…oh yeah- AAPL will continue to trade above $200 and be $240 by Q2 2010. We will see Microsoft reduced to < 35% market share within 10 years because of the lack of innovation the Microsoft Store shows us…
Meh, they all take from each other. I’ve been in plenty of Apple stores and can say from experience the title “genius” needs to be earned and not conferred. If you take away choice and flexibility, I sure hope as heck you have a stable and clean environment. As for original ideas, I wish the drones in the apple store could show some. “HI I need some help”. “Did you check in with the orange shirt?” (looking across empty store to see employee.) “OK.” Walk over there, “please go to the back for service.” I’m grateful for a world of wide OS’es, from M$ to Linux. competition keeps everyone on their game.