Apple to reopen more than 100 stores this week
Most will rely on curbside and storefront pickup.
It's been a lonely time for Apple stores.
Apple plans to reopen more than 100 of its 271 US stores across 21 states, though many will only offer storefront or curbside service. The move is in line with plans described in an open letter penned by Apple's head of retail earlier this month, outlining the iPhone maker's phased reopening strategy as coronavirus lockdown ease around the world.
"This week we'll return to serving customers in many US locations," said a representative for the company in a statement Tuesday. "For customer safety and convenience, most stores will offer curbside or storefront service only, where we provide online order pick-up and Genius Bar appointments. Others will be open for walk-in customers and we encourage everyone to check their local store webpage for more information about hours at their preferred location."
Among the stores that will allow in-person service, Apple previously said it will be limiting the total number of store occupants. The company said that it will also require all employees and customers to wear face masks while in stores, and that it would provide the masks if customers don't have their own.
Apple began shutting its stores throughout the West in the middle of March, as the coronavirus began spreading through cities in the US and Europe. On March 13, it said it would close its stores for two weeks, until March 27, then extended the closures indefinitely. The iPhone maker has over 500 stores around the world.
To check whether Genius Bar assistance is available, you can use the company's store finder tool to see if your local has reopened.
Read more: Apple Stores are reopening, but you'll need a face mask to get inside
