Apple Inc. (AAPL): Did Microsoft Corporation (MSFT) Just Level the Playing Field?

In the smartphone market, it seems like everybody wants to compete on an even playing field with Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL). This includes Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) among others.

While some companies have had more success than others (see the Android operating system), there are many more struggling to find their way.

The fact that Microsoft has lost its way in the smartphone market is no surprise to many. While the company continues to fight for third place in this important space, progress has been difficult to come by.

Is this what Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) Needs?

The old saying “if you can’t beat them, join them” definitely holds true in the tech industry. If a company is doing something right and making money as a direct result, you can be rest assured that others are going to step in and look into doing exactly the same.

This is exactly what we are seeing with Microsoft and its “store within a story” strategy. This may not be exactly the same as Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL)’s approach, but it is a similar plan to say the least.

According to the official Microsoft blog, Steve Ballmer and team have decided that opening Windows Stores at select Best Buy locations would be in the company’s best interest.

More specifically, the piece discusses the launch of its most recent store in Los Angeles.

To make things even more exciting, Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) brought out Major League Soccer star Clint Mathis to kick things off.

These new stores are going to average roughly 1,900 square feet. If you don’t think you are going to find one in your area, think again. These stores will be found inside 600 Best Buy locations throughout the United States and Canada.

This strategy may not scare Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) and CEO Tim Cook, but it will definitely show Cupertino that the company is serious about picking up momentum in the months to come.

With physical stores located throughout the United States and Canada, one has to wonder if this is going to have a positive impact on Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT)’s bottom line. It has worked for Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL), and how MSFT is hoping to take advantage as well.

Here are five hedge fund managers who continue to invest in Microsoft, despite its difficulties in the smartphone market: Sandy Nairn, Kelly Cardwell, Jeffrey Ubben, James Litinsky, and William Duhamel.

Check out the video below for more on the Microsoft Windows Phone:

Recommended Reading:

Microsoft Takes Aim at Apple