Microsoft has revealed it will be expanding the distribution of its Surface Windows RT tablet computer beyond its own stores around the world to include third-party retailers in North America, Europe and Asia.
While Microsoft hasn’t named the retailers that will carry the device, Best Buy and Staples have said they will sell the computer in the US.
Most likely this will mean that the Currys and PC World chains of retailers in the UK and Ireland will also sell the device.
As early as mid-December, consumers will be able to go to retail stores in the US and Australia to purchase a Surface with Windows RT. Additional availability will be added in a number of countries in the coming months.
“Our plan has been to expand the retail presence for Surface after the first of the year. Based on interest from retailers, we are giving them the option to carry Surface with Windows RT even earlier,” said Steve Schueler, corporate vice-president, Microsoft Retail Sales and Marketing.
