The response to the global pandemic of Conorovirus (COVID-19) is everchanging. So much so over the weekend, Apple’s CEO Tim Cook has posted a statement in regards to what their response to the virus is. And confirming that all Apple Stores outside of China are now closed until March 27th, 2020.
Key points made by Tim Cook are as follows:
- Apple will match employee donations two-to-one to support COVID-19 response
- All Apple Stores in China have reopened (after being closed for some time)
- Apple Retail Stores outside of China, including Australia, are now closed. And will remain so until March 27th, 2020 (unless extended)
- Apple’s online store will remain open and deliveries will continue. (Delivery times are slipping for certain products)
- Office employees of Apple are moving to a work-from-home if their job allows
- All hourly workers will continue to receive pay
- A dedicated new COVID-19 section in Apple News
- WWDC 2020 will be an online format
Earlier in the week Apple also confirmed this years Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) will still occur in June. But will be an all-new online format with more details to be confirmed soon.
Store Closures
The closure of Apple Retail Stores does include Australia – the first time Apple has closed all of its retail stores at once. At the time of writing, Apple is planning on reopening its stores after March 27th, 2020. Whether Apple chooses to extend the closure will likely vary between countries.
Tim Cook also goes on to say, “the entire Apple family is indebted to the heroic first responders, doctors, nurses, researchers, public health experts and public servants globally who have given every ounce of their spirit to help the world meet this moment”.
The full letter by Tim Cook can be read on Apple’s website.
Update
Since their original statement, Apple has confirmed their stores will remain closed indefinitely until further notice. Apple had every intention of reopening March 27th, but given the events around the world, that will no longer happen.
Apple’s online store remains open for orders and deliveries.
