On Friday, June 26, Microsoft-- owners of Xbox and Windows-- announced to close all its physical stores starting today. It was not said whether the main cause of the closures was the further spread of Coronavirus worldwide, but it is an obvious reason why. Just in case you're wondering where to go to once you want to buy Microsoft products, here are the alternatives.  

Here's where you can go

Today, June 26, Microsoft officially gives up on its physical stores permanently to focus on online services to its customers. The Verge reported that no layoffs would be implemented on the said closures. All stores located in the United States and other parts of the world would be closing down in the meantime. 

Microsoft did not say the exact date of its reopening, but implies that-- with the current situation-- it is more convenient and safe for its employees to stay work-at-home. 

"Our commitment to growing and developing careers from this diverse talent pool is stronger than ever," Microsoft Store VP David Porter said in a LinkedIn post on the move.

The company that started opening its main retail store in 2015 in Manhattan did not also say the reason behind the huge change with their system. Customers are still advised to contact them through online services in order to accommodate their needs and certain inquiries.

"Our sales have grown online as our product portfolio has evolved to largely digital offerings, and our talented team has proven success serving customers beyond any physical location," said Microsoft Corporate Vice President David Porter. "We are grateful to our Microsoft Store customers, and we look forward to continuing to serve them online and with our retail sales team at Microsoft corporate locations." 

'We're online'

Since the stores are now closed, Microsoft reassures its customers that their customer services hotline would operate 24/7, speak in over 120 languages, and invest more on 1-on-1 video support worldwide. 

"The Microsoft Store team has long been celebrated at Microsoft and embodies our culture," said Microsoft Chief People Officer Kathleen Hogan. "The team has a proven track record of attracting, motivating, and developing diverse talent. This infusion of talent is invaluable for Microsoft and creates opportunities for thousands of people." 

Where's the alternative?

If you don't like talking your inquiries online or with chat support, Microsoft still offers and opens some of its biggest stores located in London, New York City, Sydney, and Redmond, Washington.

These stores would be 'reimagined' or what Next Web describes as 'experience centers' or 'showrooms.' It was not fully explained on the press release, but it could mean that Microsoft, specifically for Xbox, would have these branches as the main location for the release of their new gadgets. 

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