Apple Cuts Off Snaking Lines Outside Its Stores Following iPhone 12 Launch
Image via Tada Images / Shutterstock.com
Each year, the iPhone’s popularity is underscored by the long lines outside Apple Stores following the launch of the latest flagship models. This year, however, the situation outside retail stores isn’t so visually hectic. And that’s the goal.
Depending on where you live, your local Apple Store will have implemented its own methods of crowd control as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic, now that the iPhone 12 lineup is available internationally.
According to a report by Reuters, certain locations have installed plexiglass shields to create bank teller-like Express sections for pickups and assistance.
Another strategy sees a new reservation system for when queues get too long. Apple shared with Business Insider that if this happens, and it certainly will, customers waiting in line will be assigned reservation slots and asked to come back at a specified time.
MacRumors reports that some outlets—including the Union Square location in San Francisco, California—have completely disallowed walk-in purchases. Those who wish to make a purchase will have to make a reservation ahead of their visit.
However, some customers are still seeing lines outside Apple Stores. This was the case during the iPhone 12 opening in Sydney, Australia, though it is also worth noting that Sydney is one of the cities least affected by the virus outbreak.
In a press release, Apple also encourages customers to shop from apple.com/shop, where they’ll be able to request for quick and contactless delivery, or opt to collect their items at retail locations or curbside pickups. There’s also an option to speak with an Apple Specialist online or through a one-on-one session at an Apple Store.
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Click to view enlarged version. Image via Apple
Coronavirus not stopping queue at Sydney Apple Store for iPhone 12. First guy in line has been here since 1130 last night pic.twitter.com/pIZGvdwPVp
— Daniel Van Boom (@dvanboom) October 22, 2020
they opened an overflow Apple store 👀 pic.twitter.com/DAGwjKNdUw
— Joe Hudson-Small (@joehudsonsmall) October 18, 2020
Apple is launching 20 new ‘express’ stores in the U.S. and Europe, aiming to keep customers and staff safe during the pandemic. The iPhone 12 series is due to hit store shelves tomorrow. pic.twitter.com/3jUAN52vGf
— Apple Scoop (@AppleScoop) October 22, 2020
[via MacRumors, cover image via Tada Images / Shutterstock.com]
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