Microsoft is going direct and launches an online store dubbed simply Microsoft Store.
The Microsoft Store is offering the complete software and hardware line-up of Microsoft. Yes this includes the Xbox 360 and the Zune players.
Selling direct is something that Apple has done for a very long time. I am not sure how Microsoft explained the move to open a store to their channel partners. As far as I could see all prices are list prices. The only advantage is the ability to find all software titles in one place including developer tools and business software.
The Microsoft Store launched for US, UK, Germany and Korea. Japan, France, Spain and the Netherlands are coming soon. More countries will be added throughout the year.
You can check out the Microsoft Store here.