And what will it sell besides patches and updates? I kid, I kid. Never had much use for Apple until iTunes.
The problem with such vertical integration in tech products is quality control all the way through to the customer. The guy or gal closing the deal for you has to know their stuff or you lose a sale to DIY and cheaper online options.
For Apple, with its relatively narrow product base, getting the expertise is not that hard. With bazillions of MS options, certifications, and specs — no. That is why I bet MS is looking more at the Xbox and gaming world where you can entice customers to pay a premium for one-shot products and versions only available at your store.
