Apple to Re-Create What the "Apple Store" Is

Apple has introduced a suite of changes for its Apple Store, all of which will be coming to future flagship stores, to how it organizes its retail setup. The Genius Bar, where can make an appointment to get hands-on customer service, is now the Genius Grove, accented by literal trees and open spaces. The company is also introducing what it calls "windows." Located in "the avenue," these are displays designed to change with the seasons and cycle through interactive themes, like iPhone photography, Apple Music, and iOS apps. Apple is hiring what it's calling creative pros to stand at these stations and offer advice and tips depending on the theme. The board room, another new addition, is a faux conference setup Apple designed for small businesses and startups to come and get advice from app developers and other entrepreneurs. The 6K video screen, located on the second floor, is officially called the forum. It will feature creative sessions with local experts dedicated to art and music, photography, gaming, and other Mac and iOS-centric topics. Apple says it also plans to debut new Apple Music exclusives on the screen as well. And then there's the windows. The entire, 42-foot street-facing wall is comprised mostly of glass, separated only by tall silver beams. At the press of a button, the doors can separate and turn the Apple Store into an open-faced mall of sorts. In the minds of Apple's designers — including Jony Ive, who was deeply involved in the store's construction — the removal of the glass makes the store an extension of the city itself.

Tour here: http://www.cnet.com/news/apple-thinks-different-with-new-san-francisco-store-apple-store/