[madoublet]

I don't think the announcement has anything to do with the Surface lineup. I expect that to be around for awhile.

[mytherin]

I think it's definitely related. At least it is my impression the Microsoft stores exist primarily for the Surface lineup. I also don't expect them to end the Surface lineup immediately, but it signals that they are at the very least slowing investment in that area.

[WorldMaker]

My impression was that the Microsoft Stores existed primarily for Windows Phone, and this is just lag/momentum catching up to them.