It’s been a slow summer since the launch of iPhone OS 3.0, so this edition of the Appletellcast looks outside of Apple towards Google, where Bill explains why Google Chrome will not have as big an impact as we first thought. Also, Kirk laments the loss of the Genius Bar’s usefulness, both commentators discuss some helpful apps, and a Storyist 2 competition is announced.

Seems like Microsoft is trying to duplicate a few of Apple’s defining strategies. First the funny(?) Seinfeld ads, and now, as part of a $300 million dollar marketing effort, Microsoft confirmed that they will be employing in-store representatives to act as Genius-like Microsoft know-it-alls, called Gurus. The company also plans to employ a good number of floor specialists (equivalent to Apple’s Personal Shoppers or Concierge) in a trial run at Circuit City and Best Buy.

Details after the break.

Our fellow California friends can start preparing to celebrate the opening of yet another Apple Store this weekend. On Saturday, August 9th at 10 AM you will now be able to get your favorite Apple products at the Del Monte Center in Monterey, California. As usual, this opening will come with the Genius Bar, One more »

Texans have something to look forward to this weekend: the opening of a new Apple Store! Located at 7400 San Pedro Avenue in San Antonio, Texas, it is to open at 10 A.M. on Saturday, June 28th. There are currently no workshops scheduled for this store, but you can make a reservation for various services more »

If that $200 price drop still isn’t going to motivate you to purchase an iPhone, this might. Every purchase of said phone now entitles the buyer to a free 30-day trial of Apple’s One to One personal training service, which usually retails at a yearly fee of $99. The trial limits you to one 50-minute more »

Picture this: you are working as an Apple Genius, helping a man with his iPod woes. When you believe you have adequately solved his problems, he thinks otherwise. You look on in awe as he picks up a stool and begins to destroy your laptop, and then moves on to the next Genius’. Sounds awkward more »

MacLife recently featured an exclusive interview with 2 Apple Geniuses. Apparently, to be considered for Genius training, you start off by answering a bunch of technical questions. If you’re lucky enough to be selected, it’s off to the mothership (Cupertino) for two full weeks of training. All Apple Geniuses must acquire three certifications during training: more »