The New York Post reports that Microsoft is sniffing around Times Square for a new retail store location:

"Microsoft is on the prowl for a store in Times Square. The move would be the software giant's first big stab at retail and may be an attempt to play catch-up with archrival Apple, which has hit a home run with its own branded stores, including its New York City flagship in SoHo. Microsoft is looking for a large space to create a "branding experience" a la Apple's showroom and information center."

The most likely venue for a new Microsoft store, say analysts, is One Times Square -- the building where the New Year's Eve ball drops each year.