The expected rollout of Microsoft’s chains of retail stores later this year could see the software giant deliberately pitching some of its outlets right next to existing Apple stores, one MS exec has claimed.

TechRadar quotes COO Kevin Turner as saying of the shops: “We're going to have some retail stores opened up right next door to Apple stores this fall. Stay tuned.”



Though Microsoft has yet to date the arrival of its first outlets, it’s likely that the first will be here in time for the arrival of Windows 7 in October.

The upcoming OS has been creating a bit of a stir at UK PC retailers thanks to am early pre-order deal that has seen many grab the software for as little as £40.



The Microsoft shops will stock both software and hardware, and are said to be modern, light and airy.