Apple will implement a compulsory mask-wearing measure as part of new guidelines to slow the spread of the coronavirus when it starts reopening stores across the US later this month.
In a blog post titled ‘To our customers’, Apple said that its decision-making has been driven by “care” for its teams, customers and communities since the outbreak of COVID-19.
With this in mind, it will take “unprecedented” steps to protect the wellbeing of everyone who works at or visits its physical stores during the next few months.
Apple said that around 100 stores have now managed to open globally, a large portion of those in China.
With countries in the West now easing lockdowns, Apple Stores will begin to reopen with limited services in the coming days and weeks.
Apple noted: “When a store in your area does take this step to reopen … things may look and feel a little different.
“For one thing, you’ll find yourself with plenty of space.”
There will also be other measures in place.
Visitors will have to wear a face mask, with Apple confirming that customers will be provided with one if needed.
In store customer numbers will also be limited and there will be regular deep cleans during the day.
Apple recently stated that it would focus its service on genius bars for the time being after urging customers to continue buying products online where possible.
One-on-one workshops and support will be available with social distancing measures in place.
Apple also said that customers can click and collect orders without having to enter the store to prevent large queues and to improve the overall experience.
Apple Stores in the US have started reopening this week, but there is no indication yet of when the same will happen in the UK.
The British government recently allowed some DIY stores and garden centres to open back up, but high street shops are still waiting for the green light to start operating again.