The company has signed a deal to open Windows Stores inside Best Buys

Jun 14, 2013 17:01 GMT  ·  By

Microsoft announced a new strategic partnership earlier today, revealing that it would create a Windows Store in every single Best Buy in the United States and Canada.

More than 500 Best Buys in the United States and another 100 in Canada are included in the deal, as Microsoft is hoping to bring its latest products closer to buyers.

In addition, the company has configured the so-called Windows Stores in such a way that it would allow users to easily experience the features of its new products, be they Windows devices, Surface tablets, or gaming consoles.

Chris Capossela, chief marketing officer at Microsoft, claims that every Windows Store will be at least surprising for visitors and will serve as the foundation of a unique mini-ecosystem.

“It’s something that has to be seen to be believed. Looking at the store head-on, it will feature an innovation table in the front, highlighting the newest and best Windows technologies of the moment,” Capossela explained.

“There will be a dedicated Surface area and central showcase tables with the latest and greatest PCs, laptops, convertibles and more. The back wall will feature software and accessories. And there’s an ecosystem section with real-life scenarios across Windows devices. This ecosystem area is exciting, because it will show off stuff like Xbox SmartGlass and SkyDrive.”

Microsoft will soon launch the new Windows 8.1, a major Windows 8 update that’s expected to generate a new wave of devices, including not only PCs and laptops, but also tablets and hybrids.

This new strategic partnership is most likely part of Microsoft’s plan to boost sales of Windows 8, especially because they would allow Best Buy shoppers to easily give a shot to its latest operating system.

“Retail is a priority, and this partnership with Best Buy is a prime example of our commitment to the customer experience in evaluating, experiencing and enjoying Microsoft devices, and the software and services that connect them,” Capossela concluded.