Apple Online Store Redesign?

In light of a recent patent application from Apple, a redesign to the Online Apple Store and the iTunes Music Store may be in the works. The new store would be radically different, replacing the “sterile and isolated” environment of online shopping with a huge, interactive site resembling that of Second Life. The patent, titled “Enhanced Online Shopping Atmosphere“, shows the above picture, along with details about how customers could literally “walk” around the store, and interact with customers. You could communicate with other customers, ask for advice from the Geniuses, even ask peoples opinion on something or ask why they abandoned one product for another. There is also talk of interactive forums and group chats within the store. One of the main arguments behind the patent is that with an online store, users cannot “Window Shop”, but with an interactive environment such as the one presented, window shopping will be enabled and thus increase potential sales from Apple.

Voice your opinions about the pros and cons of an interactive store below in the comments.

Via [MacWorld]