Microsoft will open its first retail store in the UK on Oxford Circus this summer, it has been revealed.
The flagship Microsoft Store will open its doors to the public on July 11, the tech giant announced today.
The site is located less than 200 yards away from Apple's own flagship store on Regent Street.
Shoppers visiting Microsoft's store will be able to get hands-on with the latest technology, products and services from the firm and its partners.
The space, which covers 21,932 square feet over three floors, includes "interactive zones" where customers can try products such as Surface, Windows, Xbox and PC gaming, and HoloLens mixed-reality.
It will also offer tech support on Microsoft product and services, and free workshops and programmes on tech and coding.
David Porter from Microsoft Store said: "A flagship store in London has long been part of our vision for our physical and digital store presence.
"London is one of the world’s most exciting shopping destinations, and we look forward to empowering customers to explore all that is possible with Microsoft."
The store will feature an "Answer Desk", offering a dedicated area for customers to get tech support, trainings, repairs and advice from trusted advisors on Microsoft products and services.
This will be available "no matter where the device was purchased, the brand or operating system," the firm said in a statement.
A space for tech, coding and STEM learning known as the "Community Theatre" will run free, year-round workshops and programmes for customers.
The statement added: "So if you are a business owner looking for the latest tech to grow your business, a gamer who wants to join a community or show your skills in a tournament, a student wanting to brush up on coding or a teacher looking to bring Minecraft alive in the classroom, customers of all ages and abilities will be able to learn and develop their digital skills."
Store manager John Carter said: "This will be more than just a store. Customers will have the chance to explore and get hands-on with technology.
"We’ve got a passionate group of store associates ready to bring the experience of tech alive for customers."
The flagship store in London joins Microsoft Store locations in New York, Sydney and across the US, Canada and Puerto Rico.
