Microsoft and Best Buy are partnering to to create the Windows Store only at Best Buy. The store-within-a-store will be in 500 Best Buy locations across the United States and in more than 100 Best Buy and Future Shop locations in Canada. Ranging in size from 1,500 square feet to 2,200 square feet, the Windows Store will allow consumers to see, try, compare and purchase a range of products and accessories, including Windows-based tablets and PCs, Windows Phones, Microsoft Office, Xbox, and more. Each store will feature a space highlighting a variety of Windows scenarios across devices; a showcase section with the latest Windows-based PC form factors such as ultrabooks, convertibles, detachables and all-in-ones ? including portable devices; and a standalone area featuring Microsoft Surface.

In addition to the dedicated Microsoft specialists already working across Best Buy locations, the alliance will add more than 1,200 Best Buy Microsoft-trained sales associates.



The two companies also will mirror the in-store experience online at http://www.bestbuy.com/windowsstore, which will provide updates on store locations, promotions and other information, including joint marketing efforts throughout the year. Windows Store only at Best Buy will roll out from late June through September.

Earlier this year Microsoft's "rival" Samsung also teamed up wth Best Buy to open 1,400 Samsung Experience Shops.