In pictures: Apple's first floating store in Singapore opens today

The newest Apple store in Singapore floats on the waters of Marina Bay

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Apple Marina Bay Sands is a first-of-its-kind floating retail store with a glass dome that appears as a floating sphere and sits directly on the water. To be thrown open for the public on Thursday, the store introduces a new retail experience at one of the most iconic locations in the country, the company said.

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The all-glass dome structure is fully self-supported, and has 114 pieces of glass with only 10 narrow vertical mullions for structural connection. Inspired by the Pantheon in Rome, an oculus located at the apex of the dome provides a flooding ray of light that travels through the space, according to Apple.

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Visitors can also receive personal technical support or simply take in the stunning view of Marina Bay. "The Forum is centered around a Video Wall, which will serve as the stage for 'Today at Apple' sessions featuring Singapore's artists, musicians and creators," Apple said.

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Apple opened its first store in Singapore at the Knightsbridge building along Orchard Road in 2017. Its second store, located at Jewel Changi Airport, opened in July last year. Apple Orchard Road was also the first Apple store to open in South-east Asia, according to reports. The new store is Apple's 512th location worldwide.

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The interior of the glass is lined with custom baffles, each uniquely shaped to counter sun angles and provide a nighttime lighting effect. With trees lining the interior of the dome, the green garden city of Singapore flows into the store, providing additional shading and soft shadows through the foliage.