Windows 8 Momentum: Will Pop-Up Stores Help?
October 30, 2012 09:06 AM Microsoft opened dozens of temporary stores to showcase its new Windows 8 and Surface tablets. Take a look at our opening day tour.
Going Beyond Surface Level
Surface ruled the scene during the pop-up store's opening day, with the device monopolizing literally all of the location's display spaces. The strategy makes sense, given that it represents Microsoft's first attempt to manufacture its own tablet. But Windows 8's success will involve more than Surface, and a narrow focus over the long term seems questionable.
Don't worry, advised Diaconesu, who promised that a "full complement of Windows family products" would join Surface at the store in coming weeks. He mentioned that the store also had several other devices that were not on display -- including some manufactured by Asus and Sony -- already available for sale Friday.
He did not share whether devices from specific vendors would be featured. He also did not state whether later additions to the store would give equal attention to all varieties of Windows 8, or if the RT version, which is more consumer-centric, would continue to hold the spotlight.
For the first day, Diaconesu said, the goal was to introduce the public to Surface. Microsoft is "enormously proud" of the device, he stated. He remarked that the location would "absolutely be featuring" the Windows Phone 8 as well.
He also said, with a coy smile, that the store will continue to evolve throughout the holidays. "Stay tuned," he said. "They may be other exciting announcements."
RECOMMENDED READING:
The Apple-ization Of Microsoft
Windows 8: You Can Handle The Learning Curve
Ballmer: Windows Has Great Tablets 'For The First Time'
Windows 8 Review: All About Touch
Windows 8: Are PC People Out Of Touch?
Windows 8: 10 Questions For Microsoft's Enterprise Chief
Windows 8: A Win For Enterprise Security
Windows 8: A Bridge Too Far For Enterprises?
