Apple Store makeovers

Apple is planning major changes to the interior layout of Apple Stores, a new report indicates. The company is said to be looking at de-emphasizing hardware , pushing Macs and iPods aside to focus on software and other less tangible content. Part of the effort should include a "Why You'll Love a Mac" section at the front of each store, using signs and brochures to contrast Macs with Windows PCs. Nearby should be a second section devoted to iLife, followed by a third concentrated around iWork.

Rumors suggest that the reorganization may start as soon as next week, but completion could demand several more weeks in order to swap out signs and retrain workers. The plans may suggest that Apple no longer sees its computer hardware as inherently distinct, or simply that the company wants to spark sales of iLife and iWork. New versions of the suites were announced during Macworld 2009.