Windows and Intel: The digital Family Feud

Microsoft and Intel have always had their disputes since 1981 when they teamed up to spark the PC revolution. But most of this took place behind closed doors. These days, though, the ties that bind the two companies are starting to fray more openly. In the past, Grove, Gates, and their companies operated in a business climate very much under their control. With few exceptions, people did their computing on PCs built around this so-called Wintel duopoly. But since PC sales are dropping, users are doing more of their computing on the assortment of mobile devices that require no Wintel.

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via: Businessweek

Microsoft planning chain of Retail Stores

Microsoft plans to follow Apples lead and open their own chain of retail stores. According to the Associated Press, Microsoft has enlisted former DreamWorks distribution chief David Porter to head the new retail business. Porter will start work on Tuesday, and his first order of business will be to help determine the “timing, locations and design” of the upcoming stores.

Microsoft has already opened locations in stores from chains like Best Buy and Circuit City last year, right as it was rolling out its $300 million ad campaign.

The AP writes that Microsoft’s retail stores will carry the company’s products and PCs pre-loaded with Microsoft software. I wouldn’t be surprised to see Zune media players and Xbox 360s make appearances alongside boxed software and Windows PCs.

via: Techreport