Microsoft Corp. will sell MakerBot desktop 3D printers in 18 of its U.S. stores. The move follows news that the software company had added support for 3D printers to its much-maligned Windows 8 operating system.
Microsoft retail stores across the country will offer a "MakerBot Experience" and the chance for customers to see 3D printing in action as well as purchase a MakerBot Replicator 2 Desktop 3D Printer and MakerBot PLA Filament right in the store.
"We've seen tremendous interest and enthusiasm at the three initial 'MakerBot Experience' stores," said MakerBob CEO Bre Pettis. "Rolling the program out to 15 additional Microsoft stores supercharges our mission to bring 3D printing to more people."
"3D printing is a significant technological innovation and we want all our customers to experience it first-hand, to learn how they can use and benefit from it in their own lives," added David McAughan, chief operating officer for Microsoft retail stores.
