Microsoft shutters its shopping center kiosks throughout the United States

Microsoft seems moving its brick-and-mortar focus to its full-fledged retailers. 

Across the United States, the computer system giant is closing its smaller sized “specialty stores,” which was the name it offered its shopping center kiosks, and is rather putting its energy into retail stores.

“After careful discussion and evaluation, we’ve made the decision to close our specialty store locations,” a Microsoft spokesperson stated in an e-mail. “We look forward to continuing to showcase a robust lineup of products and services at our full line and flagship stores.”

The news comes as Microsoft is set to open its very first flagship shop in London. The business currently has more than 80 retailers in the United States, Canada and Australia.

Originally released June 4, 1: 08 p.m. PT.
Update, 3: 44 p.m.:  Adds remark from Microsoft spokesperson.