May mark transition to Startup Sessions

Apple's new Americana outlet in Glendale, California should come closer to a fully-realized version of the Apple Store 2.0 concept, a report suggests. The final look of the location has yet to be made public, but a corporate-level source in Apple's retail division has allegedly provided some information. The store should for instance have a front facade done entirely in glass, instead of mixing in silver-colored panels.

The Americana Genius Bar is expected to be one of Apple's largest in the world, with some 50 seats. More importantly however the store will have tables dedicated to Startup Sessions, essentially similar to the current Personal Setup concept. The Americana may be the first Apple outlet to switch to the new nomenclature, although it's uncertain how quickly it might carry over to other stores.

Some other anticipated Apple Store 2.0 touches include iPad signage, "giant" displays, and possibly loudspeaker systems. The shop as a whole is said to measure roughly 14,000 square feet, making it the biggest in-mall Apple Store in the world, and indeed one of the larger ones in general. Only half of the store space is dedicated to the actual showroom however, the rest being divided between spaces for breaks, offices and repairs. The Americana store is also said to have an expansive briefing room, where workers will cater to business customers.

The shop opens this Saturday at 10AM Pacific time.

by MacNN Staff