According to Electronista, Microsoft will soon launch its Guru program. The firm will deploy Gurus to retail locations to provide hands-on demonstration of its products, including the use of Windows Vista, Office, and smartphone applications. Gurus won’t be paid on commission, but instead will focus on delivering superb service and cross-selling Microsoft products. Unlike the Genius program headed by Cupertino, Microsoft will not have its own storefront nor will Microsoft handle repair services.

Hopefully, with the Guru program, consumers will be able to understand more about smartphones and knowledgeable Gurus may help dispel the notion that Microsoft-based PDAs and smartphones are harder to use than competing products from Nokia, RIM, Palm, and others. Further, demonstrating Windows Mobile with advanced applications may help users and enterprises recognize the added value behind the Windows Mobile ecosystem compared to nascent technologies which may not have as much third-party, productivity, or professional support. Among the technologies that could be demonstrated, Microsoft could demonstrate video out, presentation features, and advanced hardware features that work well with new software on the Windows Mobile and Windows CE platforms.

Will you visit a Guru bar at a Circuit City or Best Buy?