14 DAY TRIAL // Apple is signaling the forthcoming launch of a new online store aimed at dramatically simplifying the process of doing “business” with the company.
A note on the company’s online stores focused on education specifically states that "Apple is launching a new online store, which is your tool to shop and place orders with Apple.”
“Proposal creation, order status, and a dramatically simplified user interface will make it easier to do business with Apple — all in a secure and reliable environment," the note reads.
It appears that these changes will initially roll out to the education segments of the online Apple store.
“The transition to the new store will be easy. Your current Apple ID and password will continue to work," says Apple. "In the coming weeks, you will receive more information about the store's features, benefits, and launch date.”
As noted by AppleInsider, Apple systematically makes changes to its online store whenever new services are in demand, rather than push for a complete overhaul.
For example, last month Apple introduced “Answers from the Community,” a new module on the store’s product pages which allows regular folks to discuss specific matters that concern either a small group of people, or the entire user base.
Earlier, Apple made alterations to the configuration selector for iPhones and iPads purchased online. Customers are presented with a nice web app that allows them to select the color, storage options, and cellular options, and then proceed to the check-out.
Curiously, Apple’s US online store is featuring the iPhone 4S and the MacBook Air ahead of the new iPad in the promo banner generally reserved for the hottest and newest products. Whether or not this has something to do with technicians messing around with the backend remains to be seen.