So, Microsoft is considering opening up a software/hardware shop of there own, huh? Guess it is a logical step for them. It would allow them to expand into the retail world with a variety of computer related goods and services.

Microsoft announced in July its plans to create an online software/hardware shop, called Windows Marketplace. The Redmondians said they planned to offer a guide to products and services available for Windows users, including both customers of older versions of Windows and Windows XP ones. If you want to check out a preview of the Marketplace site, Microsoft has made it live. Windows Marketplace is one component of Microsoft’s “XP Reloaded” marketing campaign, designed to keep the Windows market-momentum going until Longhorn finally arrives.