Apple Inc has confirmed the opening of its flagship store in Brisbane, Australia. Apple's retail store is expected to open in the historic MacArthur Chambers building. Signs have been placed outside the building advertising the long-awaited opening of the first Apple character flagship store in Australia.

Rumours of an Apple store in the building began to circulate in April 2012 when development plans were submitted to the city council of Brisbane. Plans for redevelopment of the building included the restoration of its interiors comprising three levels.

The original bronze doors of MacChambers will be restored, featuring a new staircase in the mezzanine level to replace escalators. According to Apple's application to the city council, the new design will allow the creation of a high quality retail outlet. It will also highlight the architectural design of the original building combined with contemporary elements.

According to reports, Apple Inc usually turns historical buildings in other countries as its retail stores. The MacArthur Chambers will be the third Apple store in Brisbane after Westfield Chermside and Carindale stores that opened in August 2012.

It was predicted previously that the new flagship store will open on October 2013, but various sources indicate that Australians should expect the opening of Apple's flagship store in Brisbane on January 10 or 11.

Holiday shoppers prefer iOS than Android

Christmas Day shoppers spent twice as much on Apple devices than Android. According to IBM, iOS devices were used to make 23 per cent of online purchases with $93.94 per order. Apple Inc's iPhone and iPad continue to be the preferred mobile tool for shopping despite the wide availability of Android devices.

While Android devices make up most of the world's smart phone market share, Apple Inc has increased its lead in the United States based on recent figures by comScore. According to the report, Apple Inc continues to dominate the smart phone market in the U.S. with 40.6 per cent.

2014 is expected to be the year of the iPhones with the partnership of Apple Inc and China Mobile. The deal will enable both companies to attract more customers and gain a bigger share in a market with 1.2 billion subscribers. China Mobile's retail stores will begin selling the iPhone 5C and iPhone 5S on Jan. 17 as indicated in the company's official statement.