Microsoft Retail Store Opens, Windows 7 Computers Sold Online

Going all out with today’s launch of Windows 7, Microsoft open the doors of its first new retail store in Scottsdale, Ariz. The stores, which are an awful lot like the Apple Store, even managed to borrow some of that Cupertino hysteria, with hundreds of people lining up to get inside. There was, of course, a lure: The first 1,000 people through the doors got a gift bag, which according to the AP contained a $25 gift certificate, chapstick, mints, a bottle of water and tickets to see pop singer Ashley Tisdale perform at the store later this evening. What, no USB thumb drive or other appropriate tech gift? If I had waited 12 hours in line, as some people reportedly did, I’d be bummed.

But who cares about freebies? The big news here is Microsoft’s shot as a retailer. And while the brick-and-mortar store has computers, Xbox 360s and Zunes, Microsoft’s online store was updated to match. It’s not longer a place for strictly Microsoft products, as you can now pick up a laptop from almost a dozen brands, including Asus, Dell and Lenovo. Buyer beware, though: You might not get the best deal at Microsoft’s online shop, as Dell’s XPS 13 is $79 more expensive ($999) compared to Best Buy. Contain your excitement for Windows 7 and shop smart. [via AP]