Apple Closes All US Retail Stores Indefinitely Amid Coronavirus Pandemic
Apple extends its retail shutdown by closing all US stores until further notice to slow the coronavirus spread. Customers can still purchase products and request repairs online or by phone.
Apple closes all of its retail stores in the United States until further notice as the coronavirus pandemic continues to disrupt daily life. The company initially announces plans to close all locations outside of China until March 27, but shifting health guidelines and rising infection rates prompt an indefinite extension of the shutdown.
CEO Tim Cook explains that the closures are a necessary step to minimize the risk of virus transmission by reducing crowd density and maximizing social distance. Apple applies lessons learned from its earlier store closures in mainland China, where all 42 locations successfully reopen in March after shutting down in February.
Despite the physical store closures, Apple remains committed to serving its customers through digital channels. Shoppers can still buy Apple products and arrange for device repairs online or over the phone while the retail locations remain temporarily shuttered.