Retail Roundup: Apple to Release 'Concierge' iPhone Application? Nashua, NH Store Opening?

MacRumors has heard from several sources that Apple is preparing to launch a "Concierge" iPhone application targeted at customers of its retail stores. The application will reportedly provide many of the same functions available through the company's retail store online reservations system, allowing customers to schedule Genius Bar and One to One appointments from their mobile devices. Sources have also indicated that the application will allow users to keep tabs on their premium membership subscriptions offered by the company.

There is no word yet on when the application, which will presumably be free to download, is expected to appear in the App Store.

On a separate note, MacRumors has also heard that Apple will be opening a new retail store this weekend in the Pheasant Lane Mall in Nashua, New Hampshire, the company's second location in the state. Like the existing Salem, NH store, the Nashua store is located only a short drive from the Boston metropolitan area and is expected to draw heavily from cross-border shoppers looking to take advantage of New Hampshire's lack of state sales taxes.