Many of us feel most comfortable making larger Apple purchases directly from the Apple Store, either in person or online. Of course, Apple doesn't have a constant stream of sales and discounts like some other retailers. However, we know how to get discounts at the Apple Store or on Apple's website. Tip #1: Use your Apple Card or the other credit cards mentioned below on top of any of these other methods to stack your savings.

Black Friday deals

Though Black Friday isn't nearly as big a deal at Apple as it is at other retailers, Apple often has some kind of offer going on the biggest retail day of the year. Usually, Apple gives away up to $200 in Apple gift cards with the purchase of certain big-ticket items. If you're considering a large Apple purchase, consider waiting until then. We have a complete Apple Black Friday Deals guide for you. We update this guide continually with the best deals, regardless of the season.

Apple Gift Cards

Speaking of gift cards, some stores sell gift cards at a discount or where you can get store rewards for buying gift cards. For example, Giant Eagle sells Apple gift cards and gives you rewards toward free gasoline at their GetGo gas stations with purchase. It might be more hassle for you than it's worth, but it is a way to save money. I did this before purchasing a MacBook Pro and I got a free tank of gas out of it.

Apple Trade In

If you have an older Apple device gathering dust, why not take advantage of Apple's Trade In program? Get an estimate right now to find out what your old device is worth. Mail it or bring it into Apple to get an immediate discount off of what you're buying. Or, if you prefer, you can receive an Apple gift card that you can use for a later purchase.

College students

College students get discounts on computers, iPad Pros, Apple Music, and Apple Pencils all year round. If you are a college student, you can shop either in the store or online through the Shop for College portal, found at the bottom of Apple's website.

The discount is not percentage-based; rather, it will be different for each item. Shopping through this portal discounts the items automatically; it does not show original pricing. When shopping in the brick and mortar store, you will need a college ID or some other proof of attendance as well as a valid driver's license.

Note: During Back to School season, Apple has traditionally done additional promotions. This year, Apple offered free AirPods with the purchase of a computer, iPad Pro, or iPad Air, plus 20% off AppleCare+ on top of the education discount.

Teachers and educators

All teachers and educators at any level from preschool to graduate school are eligible for the exact same discounts and deals on Apple products as college students, as described above. Educators do not get the discount on Apple Music like college students do, however.

You'll need to bring in proof of employment, such as a teacher ID badge or pay stub. Your school will also need to be listed in Apple's system for the specialist to apply your discount. Also, if you're buying Apple products for your school, you can get a tax exemption.

Tax Exemption

If you work for a school, charity, place of worship, or other tax-exempt institution and are buying Apple products for your workplace, you can be exempted from paying sales tax. You'll need to bring in all of the paperwork from your workplace that proves your tax-exempt status. This will be in addition to any discounts you receive.

Company discounts

Many companies have a relationship with Apple, and their employees can get a discount at the Apple Store when buying items for their own personal use. If you work for a fairly large company, ask your HR person if you're eligible for discounts at the Apple Store. If so, you'll just need to bring documentation such as a work ID badge or business card and ask your specialist (Apple salesperson) to apply the discount. Your workplace may also provide you with an online portal to order from Apple at a discount.

Government employees

If you work for the government, you can get discounts on select Apple products at the Apple Store. Like the education discount, you can shop the government page on Apple.com to access the discounted prices. You'll find different portals where you can get discounts depending on if you're buying for your government agency or your personal use. You can also shop at the brick-and-mortar store. Be sure to bring your government ID to show the Apple employee so they can offer you the appropriate discount.

Military and veterans

You're eligible for a 10% military discount on certain Apple services and products if you are currently serving in the military, you're a veteran, or you're an immediate family member residing in the same household. Access the discount through the military page on Apple.com or in a brick and mortar Apple Store. If you're buying online, you'll need to verify your status via ID.me. You'll also need your Military ID to access the discount in person. Be sure to check the online price before purchasing in the brick and mortar store, as some users report receiving only 6% off in person.

Business owners

If you own a business (whether big or small), you'll want to meet with Apple's business team.

You can ask anyone in the store to get you an introduction, or you can click on the Shop for Business link at the bottom of Apple's website.

As a business owner, you will be eligible for discounts once you reach a certain spending threshold. You are also able to arrange financing and leasing through the business team. If you're buying Apple products for the whole company, your savings could be substantial. There are many other benefits to connecting with Apple's business team, so definitely make a point of doing so if you own any kind of company.

Random promotions

From time to time, Apple will have a sale on certain accessories, such as Beats headphones. While these special prices will be on Apple's website, they are not otherwise advertised, and there won't be signage in the Apple Store. Sometimes you just get lucky; the discount will pop up when you're ringing out. We cover those kinds of discounts right here on iMore, so be sure to check in with us frequently and follow us on Twitter and/or Facebook so you don't miss out!

The right credit card

Using the Apple Card at the Apple Store will get you 3% cashback on your purchase. That may not sound like much, but it adds up. It's not your only option, however. You can stack a $150 statement credit and 1.5% cashback with the American Express® Cash Magnet card, which is one of the best credit cards to use when buying Apple products. This card also offers accidental damage protection and 15-month free financing. Business owners can reap even higher cashback rewards with the American Express® Business Gold card.

Certified Refurbished

If you don't need the very latest and greatest, you can shop at Apple's Certified Refurbished online store for up to 15% off retail prices. Note that this is available exclusively online, not at Apple's brick-and-mortar retail stores. Buying from certified refurbished directly from Apple doesn't feel like buying used. If any parts have been replaced, they will be genuine Apple parts.

The device is cleaned and inspected and has a brand new battery and shell. It ships free and comes in a new box with all of the normal accessories. You get a one-year warranty and the option to purchase AppleCare. Another advantage of buying refurbished is getting a specific older model you might want that Apple no longer offers new.

Getting Apple products for less

Some of us prefer to buy our Apple products directly from Apple. So, we hope this guide has given you plenty of avenues for saving money at the Apple Store, both at brick-and-mortar locations and online. Of course, if you're willing to shop elsewhere, you can certainly save money buying Apple products at Amazon, Best Buy, Target, and more. At iMore, we strive to keep you on top of all the latest and greatest deals on Apple products and popular accessories as soon as they come up anywhere.

You won't find big SALE! signs at Apple Stores for sure, but if you have the know-how, you can certainly save some money on some new Apple products. And honestly, one of the best places to get Apple gear is directly from Apple itself.

What you need to know

• The National Labor Relations Board has certified the union election for the Apple Store in Towson, Maryland
• The newly-formed IAM-CORE can now bargain with Apple.
• It is unclear when bargaining for the first contract with begin.

The first unionized Apple employees are ready to bargain with the company.

In a blog post, The National Labor Relations Board has certified the union election victory for the 100+ Apple Store employees in Towson, Maryland in the United States. The group will be known as IAM-CORE and, now that the certification is in, can meet with Apple management to negogiate its first contract.

IAM Eastern Territory General Vice President David Sullivan said that the group hopes that the first contract with the company will "enhance their workplace and continue to advance Apple's standing as one of the world's most innovative companies."

The employees part of IAM-CORE said that it's goal is to "make Apple the number one company in the world and the number one workplace in the world."

IAM International President Robert Martinez Jr. hinted that it isn't stopping at Townson and is building a blueprint for Apple Store employees who wish to unionize across the country.

Apple Store employees at the Maryland location voted overwhelming in favor of unionization on June 18.

What you need to know

• U.S. President Joe Biden says he is proud of a recent decision by one Apple Store to unionize.
• A Maryland Apple Store voted to unionize this past weekend.
• Other Apple Stores are considering a similar move.

U.S. President Joe Biden says that he is "proud" of a Maryland Apple Store team's decision to unionize. The store's worker's voted to join the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers this past weekend.

In a vote that involved more than 100 workers in Towson, near Baltimore, the workers voted "overwhelmingly" in favor of joining the union, making them the first Apple retail workers to do so.

Now, Retuers reports that Biden has told reporters that he is proud of those who voted, saying " workers have a right to determine under what condition they are going to work or not work."

"Everybody is better off, including the final product is always better off (because of unions)", Biden reportedly said on Monday when asked about the Apple vote. Biden has long been considered to be in favor of unions, unlike his predecessor President Donald Trump.

While the Maryland workers are the first to successfully unionize, they are far from the first to suggest the idea. Various Apple Stores have been considering a similar move, with Apple said to be working against them by holding anti-union speeches and more.

Apple Store employees in Atlanta recently put the brakes on attempts to unionize among claims of "illegal union-busting tactics" by Apple.

All of this is news that Apple will hope won't detract attention from a big few months ahead. It has the launch of its next best iPhone, iPhone 14 just a few months away while the Apple Watch Series 8 launch won't be far behind it. New Macs and iPads are also likely to be announced, with its Apple Store employees set to be tasked with selling all the new products — unionized, or not.

What you need to know

• Apple Camp is coming back to Apple Stores.
• The program offers children and families a fun project to work on together with the iPad.
• This year, attendees will learn how to create a digital comic book about the planet.

Apple Camp, a program that brings children and families together to work on fun projects at the Apple Store, is returning to in person this summer.

Today, Apple has announced that Apple Camp is returning to Apple Store locations around the world from June 20 through August 31. The latest lesson comes in a new two-hour format and will teach attendees how to "create their own digital comic book about protecting and celebrating the planet."

Deirdre O'Brien, Apple's senior vice president of Retail + People, said that the company is "thrilled" to be bringing the program back in person for its 20th anniversary.

This year, Apple Creative Pros in the Apple Store will lead "Art Lab: Comic Book Adventure." It is designed for kids ages 8 to 12 and will take place either indoors or outdoors depending on the location.

For those who can't make the in-store session, Apple has also released a downloadable guide that takes participants through twenty at-home activities. All you need is an iPad to get started.

Parents and guardians who are interested in signing up for a local session can sign up for Apple Camp on the Today at Apple website.

What you need to know

• A UK Apple Store had numerous iPhones stolen during a raid.
• A security guard was threatened with violence as the theft unfolded.

Thieves made away with a number of display iPhones during a raid at a Bristol, UK Apple Store, according to local reports.

Local outlet Bristol Live reports that "a gang of thieves who walked into Bristol's Apple Store and ripped out 'numerous' iPhones from the display before running off are being hunted by police." While the report doesn't say exactly how many iPhones the thieves made off with, it does say that one of the men "threatened to harm" a security guard before they "walked off with thousands of pounds worth of phones."

The caper went down at the Quakers Friars Apple Store in Bristol. Oddly, the report says that it happened "at 9.10am on Tuesday, April 26, soon after the store opened" — but Apple's website says the store doesn't open until 10:00am. Either way, police have shared CCTV of the man involved.

Apple Stores have long been easy targets for thieves thanks to their open entrances and easy access to products, whether that's display iPhone 13 models or cases, chargers, and more that are easily accessed on store shelves. Apple Stores often have security guards posted, especially during busy times, but they are limited in their ability to deal with situations like this. Thankfully, nobody appears to have been hurt during this latest theft.

Apple Stores can be some of the busiest around, especially during peak trading season when a new iPhone is released — as will be the case in September when the iPhone 14 lineup is expected to go on sale.

What you need to know

• The Apple Store website and app are down right now.
• The move likely confirms Apple is planning to announce new hardware.
• The WWDC 2022 keynote will kick off at 10:00 AM PDT.

The Apple Store website and Apple Store app have gone down ahead of the WWDC 2022 Keynote, likely indicating that we can expect new hardware to be announced.

Ahead of Apple's Worldwide Developer Conference, which is set to kick off with a keynote at 10:00 AM PDT, Apple's website and store app are both down. Apple has only ever taken down the Apple Store during WWDC week when it has announced new hardware.

Of course, the rumors are swirling as to what Apple may announce during its WWDC 2022 keynote. The company is expected to reveal the next generation of iOS, iPadOS, watchOS, tvOS, and macOS. Those are, well, obvious expectations.

However, rumors continue to grow that the company could unveil other things at the event as well, including the redesign of the MacBook Air or the new Mac Pro. It could also preview its upcoming mixed reality headset as well as the software the company is building to support the device.

WWDC 2022 will begin with a keynote that will kick off at 10:00 AM PDT. The event will be live-streamed on Apple's website, the Apple TV app, and on YouTube.

Once the event is over, the Apple Store website and Apple Store app will surely come back online quickly to show off the announcements from the event.

We are only hours away from everything now so get ready to tune in!

What you need to know

• Apple has reportedly agreed to improve working hours for its retail employees.
• Employees will now have a minimum of 12 hours between shifts.
• Some stores are considering unionizing to help get better working conditions.

Apple has reportedly agreed to make changes to the world schedules of its retail employees across the United States, making them more flexible in the process. The move comes as Apple comes under increasing pressure from workers who are considering unionizing to improve working conditions.

Apple is said to have told staff members at some stores that changes in scheduling will take place over the coming months.

Bloomberg has the details of the changes that are coming in.

• A minimum of 12 hours in between shifts, an increase from the current minimum of 10 hours.
• A maximum of three days per week when employees can work past 8 p.m., unless they choose to work late shifts.
• Employees won't be scheduled to work more than five days in a row, a change from a maximum of six days in a row. There could be exemptions during new product launches and holidays.
• Full-time employees will be eligible for a dedicated weekend day off for each six-month period.

While some of the changes won't kick in until later this year, others will begin to come into effect within the next few weeks. Apple also recently increased its minimum hourly pay rate from $20 to $22. All of this is taking place against a backdrop that includes various Apple retail outlets considering unionizing over their working conditions.

Apple retail will soon embark on its busiest period of the year as we get closer to the arrival of the new iPhone 14 lineup, a likely Apple Watch Series 8 release, and more hardware arrivals before 2022 draws to a close.

What you need to know

• Apple is opening a new retail location in the United States.
• The company is actively hiring employees for an Apple Store in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
• It will be the first new Apple Store in the United States since September of last year.

Apple is looking to open its first brand-new retail location in the United States since September of last year.

In the latest edition of his Tabletops newsletter, Michael Steeber reported that the company is now hiring for a new Apple Store location in East Rutherford, New Jersey. According to his report, it will be the first brand-new location for the company in the country since Apple opened Apple The Mall at Bay Plaza in the Bronx in September of last year.

Apple Stores in the United States have been slow to expand in the United States as of late. That is partly due to the COVID-19 pandemic, of course. The company has also been choosing to remodel or relocate stores that are older. It has also closed a couple of stores are opening new locations near current ones.

Thankfully, with any of those moves, the company has maintained its existing staff or offered to relocate retail employees to other stores in a nearby location.

It's currently unclear when Apple's new location in New Jersey will open to the public.

What you need to know

• Apple has reportedly told Apple Store employees in 100 US locations that they must once again wear masks.
• Customers visiting Apple Stores won't be required to wear masks at this time.
• Apple has also paused plans to require people to work from the office three days per week.

Apple has reportedly told employees at a portion of its United States Apple Stores that they must once again wear masks when at work, although the company has stopped short of requiring that customers also wear face coverings.

The move comes following a report that Apple has also paused plans to require staff to work in the office three days per week from Monday. It's thought that concerns over increases in positive COVID-19 cases are behind the moves. That report came via Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, with a further post to Twitter confirming the move to require masks be worn by some retail employees.

It is still unclear at this stage when Apple will require people to work from the office for the previously agreed three days, nor do we know when Apple will remove the mask requirement for the aforementioned retail employees. However, it's likely both cases will be reviewed as the COVID-19 situation changes in the coming days and weeks. Employees must still work from the office two days a week.

This isn't the first time that Apple has required its retail employees to wear masks, of course, but that requirement was dropped as COVID-19 numbers began to fall across the country. Once that happens again, it's likely the requirement will be removed once more.

What you need to know

• The Grove Apple Store had a special Apple TV+ event with stalls and more.
• Some of the most popular Apple TV+ shows were represented at the LA store.
• Shows included Severance, The Morning Show, Ted Lasso, and more.

Apple TV+ has taken over a Los Angeles Apple Store with stalls set up to promote some of the streamer's most popular shows.

It isn't unusual for Apple to use its stores to promote its services but this latest example sees Apple TV+ promote Schmigadoon, Ted Lasso, Severance, and others in a whole new way. 9to5Mac has photos of the event with multiple stalls set up and ice cream and other goodies handed out.

As you'd imagine, special QR codes are everywhere — giving people the chance to scan and sign up for Apple TV+ and watch at home. Each QR code was bespoke, taking people to the show's page within the TV app.

Apple TV+ continues to add new shows, movies, and documentaries in a constant battle for subscribers. Disney+ is reportedly adding customers at a rate of knots, while Netflix is losing them almost as quickly. Apple doesn't share Apple TV+ subscriber numbers, but events like this are sure to help draw attention to some of the content that's available.

If you want to enjoy Apple TV+ in style, be sure to check out our list of the best Apple TV deals on the market today.

What you need to know

• Apple may finally remove the metal fence barrier surrounding its Apple Store in Portland, Oregon.
• The company is reportedly designing a new polycarbonate barrier that could be installed as soon as this summer.

The Apple Store in downtown Portland, Oregon has been surrounded by a metal fence barrier for over a year now. Thankfully, it appears that the barrier may finally be coming down.

As reported by The Oregonian and spotted by Michael Steeber's Tabletops newsletter, Apple is planning to replace the metal fence surrounding Apple Pioneer Place, the company's retail location in downtown Portland. The company reportedly proposed a new transparent security enclosure to a local community group as a replacement to the existing enclosure which has remained in place for over a year.

Walt Weyler, the chair of the Downtown Neighborhood Association, said that representatives from the company showed off the proposed new enclosure in a virtual meeting on Tuesday.

Someone who attended the call took a screenshot of the proposed polycarbonate enclosure design which you can see below:

Weyler believes that, while the project is in the conceptual stage, Apple is most likely considering such a move as a way to maintain its presence in the city while also continuing to protect its property. Construction of the new enclosure could begin as soon as this summer.

Apple declined to comment on the report.

What you need to know

• The Cumberland Mall Apple Store will hold a union election on June 2.
• Around 70% of its workers have signed authorization cards in support of unionization.
• If it goes through, the store will be the first in the United States to unionize.

The first Apple Store in the United States could be unionized as soon as June.

As reported by The Verge, Apple Store employees at the Cumberland Mall location have reached an agreement with the company to hold a union election on June 2. The outlet obtained a copy of the stipulated election agreement which spelled out employees' efforts to organize with the Communications Workers of America.

The news comes as the third Apple Store in the United States launched a unionization effort. Earlier today, it was reported that Apple Store employees at the Towson Town Center store in Maryland were also organizing. Workers at Grand Central Terminal in New York City also have an organizing effort going.

According to the report, Apple attempted to push the election until July but that was shot down by the CWA. Workers hope that, through unionizing, they will be able to push for better pay, career development, and benefits.

The election will reportedly begin on June 2 and run through June 4. It will be held in person and all regular full and part-time workers will be eligible. The New York Times reports that about 70% of the staff have signed authorization cards in support of the union.

If the vote goes through, the Atlanta-based Apple Store will be the first in the United States to unionize.

What you need to know

• Apple is slowing down the hiring of Genius Bar positions for some stores.
• The company has reportedly told some stores it will not backfill positions.
• It has also gone back on some verbal job offers.

Apple has reportedly slowed down the hiring of Genius Bar positions in what is being characterized as a cost-cutting move.

As reported by Bloomberg, "people with knowledge of the matter" said that the company told some stores that it would not backfill positions and also retracted some verbal job offers.

Employees at affected stores see it as a move to lower the overall headcount in the store due to a drop in customers over the course of the pandemic.

Apple declined to comment on the story, but it makes sense that the company would adjust headcount at stores that are seeing a consistent drop in customer traffic. While the Genius Bar has been an iconic part of many Apple Stores, the company has adopted a different approach in the Genius Grove for its more modern retail locations.

Despite cutting some headcount levels, Apple is expected to report impressive financial performance at the company's Q2 2022 earnings call on Thursday.

What you need to know

• Apple Store workers in Atlanta, Georgia have filed to unionize.
• They become the first in the United States to file for a union election.
• Apple Store workers in New York City are also organizing to potentially call for a union vote.

New York City isn't the only place that Apple Store workers are looking to unionize.

As reported by Bloomberg Law, workers at an Apple Store in Atlanta, Georgia became the first in the United States to file for a union election. The group, which included 107 employees of the Apple Store in the Cumberland Mall, filed the petition with the National Labor Relations Board after it reached the 70% in-favor threshold.

Derrick Bowles, an employee at the Cumberland Apple Store and member of the organizing committee, said that they decided to organize now because "we simply see momentum swinging the way of workers."

An election for unionization has been proposed to take place between May 5th and 7th. If formed, the group would be called the Apple Workers Union. They are currently demanding a base salary increase to $28 per hour as well as increased raises and larger profit sharing that matches the company's benefits for corporate employees.

In a statement, an Apple spokesperson said that the company is "pleased to offer very strong compensation and benefits for full-time and part time employees, including health care, tuition reimbursement, new parental leave, paid family leave, annual stock grants and many other benefits."

The news follows that of another organizing effort occurring with Apple Store employees at the company's flagship location in Grand Central Station, New York City. While that group has not filed formally for unionization yet, they are organizing toward such a move.

What you need to know

• Apple Store workers at the company's flagship store in New York City are attempting to unionize.
• The workers are demanding a starting pay of $30 per hour.
• They are also pushing for better vacation and retirement policies.

A group of Apple Store workers at the company's flagship store in New York are taking steps to unionize.

According to the Fruit Stand Workers United website, the group is organizing to form a union at the Grand Central Apple Store location in New York City. The group has recently updated the website and provided more details about what it is looking for from Apple if it does organize.

In a statement on the website, the group said that it seeks a minimum wage of $30 per hour for all of its workers. In addition, it looks to increase vacation time and retirement options. For example, the group wants Apple to increase its company match for its 401K plan and also open up options for a pension.

It's currently unclear if the group will succeed. The effort to unionize will eventually need to be put to a vote, and many companies across the United States (most recently notable being Amazon) have been skillful at turning employees away from voting for the union. Only one Amazon location's workers have managed to vote for unionizing so far.

We'll have to wait and see how this latest effort in unionizing goes for Apple's own employees.

What you need to know

• Apple will give $1 to the WWF for every transaction that takes place via Apple Pay.
• All Apple Pay transactions in the Apple Store, via the Apple Store app, and in the online Apple Store will be included.
• The donations will run from now through Earth Day on April 22.

Apple has emailed customers to say that every time they buy something using Apple Pay via an Apple Store, on the Apple website, or via the Apple Store app, $1 will be donated to the World Wildlife Fund (WWF). The donations begin now and will run through April 22 which so happens to be Earth Day.

This isn't the first time that Apple has made donations of this kind to the WWF and it will surely not be the last.

While this news is unlikely to make anyone rush out to buy something just to donate a dollar, Apple will no doubt process a ton of transactions regardless — generating a sizeable sum for the WWF.

Apple is also running an Apple Watch Activity Challenge specific to Earth Day, something that can be completed by taking part in a 30-minute workout on the same day. That'll cover normal workouts, as well as those via Apple Fitness+ and, will hopefully inspire people to move a little more on April 22. Maybe you could take a light jog down to your local Apple Store to buy that new MacBook Air you've been promising yourself?

What you need to know

• Apple Myeongdong is now open to customers.
• The new retail store is located in the heart of Seoul, South Korea.
• Customers do currently need an appointment to visit the store.

Apple has finally opened the door to its latest Apple Store in South Korea.

Today, the company opened the doors of Apple Myeongdong, its new retail location in the heart of Seoul, South Korea. Customers in the area can now visit the store to purchase Apple products, get repairs, and learn a range of topics with the beloved Today at Apple series.

Apple previously stated on the location's webpage that, due to safety concerns, visitors will need to make a reservation in order to get into the store on opening day. Reservations closed on April 7 so, if you did not make a reservation by then, there is no guarantee you'll be able to get into the store for its grand opening.

Apple Myeong-dong is the third Apple Store in South Korea. The company already has two other locations in the country: Apple Yeouido and Apple Garosugil.

We'll be sure to update this article or get a new post up when Apple shares photos of the opening as the company usually does.

What you need to know

• Apple has shared a preview of Apple Myeongdong ahead of its grand opening.
• The store will open to customers on Saturday, April 9.

Ahead of the store's grand opening on Satuday, Apple has shared a preview of Apple Myeongdong.

The store, which is located in Seoul's shopping district, will be the company's largest store in South Korea. Deirdre O'Brien, Apple's senior vice president of Retail + People, said that the company is "thrilled to deepen our relationship with our Korean customers."

In addition to launching the first K-pop Today at Apple Remix session featuring SEVENTEEN, the company is collaborating with a number of other artists with the following sessions:

• Art Lab: "Draw Springtime Floral Greetings" with artist Nanan Kang
• Photo Lab: "Capture the Colors of Seoul" with travel photographer Lee Jongbeom
• Exclusive: In Conversation with Minha Kim, star of the new Apple Original drama "Pachinko"
• Art Lab: "Create Your Own Abstract World in AR" with artist VAKKI

The store finds itself at the base of a new tower in the center of Seoul. Surrounding the store is a couple of pocket gardens featuring sculptures by Jaehyo Lee and VAKKI.

Check out all of the photos previewing the store before its opening on Saturday:

Apple Myeongdong is set to open to customers on Saturday, April 9.

What you need to know

• Apple has announced that Apple Myeongdong will open in South Korea on April 9.
• The store will be located in the heart of Seoul, South Korea.

It looks like Apple's latest retail location in South Korea is opening next week.

In an update to the store's website (translated via Google Translate and spotted by Michael Steeber, which will be called Apple Apple Myeongdong, the company now says that the store will open on Saturday, April 9. The store page, in addition to including a promotional video showcasing art made for the store opening, also features wallpapers that can be downloaded for the iPhone, iPad, and Mac.

Apple says that, due to safety concerns, visitors will need to make a reservation in order to get into the store on opening day. The company says that reservations can be made on the store website starting on 8:00 AM on April 7.

Once opened, Apple Myeong-dong will be the third Apple Store in South Korea. The company already has two other locations in the country: Apple Yeouido and Apple Garosugil.

What you need to know

• Apple is teasing its new store coming soon to Myeong-dong.
• The store will be located in the heart of Seoul, South Korea.
• The company has been hiring for the new store for at least a month.

It looks like Apple's latest retail location in South Korea is opening soon.

In an update to the store's website (translated via Google Translate and spotted by Michael Steeber, which will be called Apple Apple Myeongdong, the company now says that the store will "see you soon." The store page also includes a lot of awesome art that appears to hint at what customers can expect in the store, including the company's famous video wall for Today at Apple sessions.

While the exact opening date for the store is still unknown, Apple has been actively hiring for the location for at least a month now. The company has also been recruiting for its other stores in the area.

Once opened, Apple Myeong-dong will be the third Apple Store in South Korea, and all of them are located in and around Seoul. The company already has two other locations in the country: Apple Yeouido and Apple Garosugil.

What you need to know

• Apple is dropping its masking requirement for retail and corporate employees.
• Vaccinated corporate employees can still wear a mask but it is now optional.
• The company is also dropping mask requirements in a small number of retail stores.

The masks are coming off at Apple Retail and Corporate.

As reported by Bloomberg, Apple has begun to drop its mask requirements for both Apple Store and corporate employees. The company has reportedly informed its staff that it will begin to ease mask mandates for vaccinated employees in areas where COVID-19 cases are low and local mask mandates are being dropped.

Apple says that masks are now optional for corporate employees who are vaccinated and that some retail locations if cases are low and local mandates are removed, will now make masking optional for its Apple Store employees.

The move comes shortly after the company announced that most of its retail stores in the United States would remove its mask requirements for its customers. It also announced earlier today that it is finally bringing Today at Apple back to the Apple Store.

The company has been attempting to get back to a sense of normalcy for more than a year now. It has planned to and rolled back COVID-19 restrictions before and, due to cases rising, had to abandon those plans. Hopefully, this latest easing of caution will be able to stick.

What you need to know

• Apple may increase testing frequency for its retail employees.
• Vaccinated and unvaccinated employees will need to test for COVID-19 twice a week.
• The company is also considering dropping its mask mandate for Apple Store employees.

Apple Store employees may have to get tested more for COVID-19.

As reported by Bloomberg, the company is planning to increase COVID-19 testing for all Apple Store employees, regardless of vaccination status, to twice per week. This comes as Apple is considering the removal of its mark requirement for employees working in its retail locations.

The company made the announcement about increased testing in a memo to its retail staff in the United States on Tuesday. Apple said that it hopes to keep its eased protocols in place for employees and customers "for the foreseeable future."

Apple is been slowly rolling back its COVID-19 precautions as cases continue to drop sharply around the country. It has, however, increased restrictions as cases rose in the past. Hopefully, it won't be forced to do so again.

What you need to know

• Apple's newest retail location in the United Arab Emirates is now open.
• Apple Al Maryah Island official opened to customers on Friday, February 25.
• The store is located in the financial district of Abu Dhabi.

Today, Apple opened its latest Apple Store in the United Arab Emirates.

In a press release, the company announced that Apple Al Maryah Island official opened to customers on Friday, February 25. The new store is "elevated above steps of cascading water" and has views of the shoreline while located within the city's financial district.

On the official store's page on the Apple Store website, Apple invites customers to "take a deep breath and dive in with us and go on a journey to discover the creativity that lies within." The website also features a custom wallpaper that you can download for the Mac, iPad, and iPhone.

As a special treat for customers, the company hosted three Abu Dhabi-focused Today at Apple sessions.

You can check out all of the photos from the new store opening below:

What you need to know

• Apple may be dropping its mask requirement for Apple Store employees.
• Most Apple Stores in the United States are dropping their mask requirement for customers.
• Employees and customers will still have the option to request a mask.

Yesterday, it was reported that Apple Stores across the United States were dropping their mask mandates for customers. Now, it appears that it may do the same for its employees.

According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, the company is at least considering the possibility of removing its mask mandate for Apple Store employees "in as early as two weeks."

Yesterday's report, which said that Apple is going to drop its mask requirement for customers, mentioned that the employee requirement would remain. Today - not so much! Of course, those who still wish to wear a mask in the stores can and Apple says that it will continue to provide masks for both employees and customers.

This is the company's latest news to roll out that indicates a positive outlook on the future of the pandemic. Hopefully, the mask mandate never has to return.

What you need to know

• Most Apple Stores in the United States are dropping their mask requirement.
• Customers will still have the option to request a mask.
• The company is also looking to bring back its Today at Apple sessions.

Apple is dropping its in-store mask mandate at most of its retail locations in the United States.

As reported by Bloomberg, the company has dropped its requirement for customers to wear a mask in most of its Apple Stores in the country.

According to the company's announcement, it is making the change due to the drop in COVID cases as well as changes in local mandates. Apple Store employees will still be required to wear masks and customers who request a mask will be offered one.

In another attempted return to normalcy, Apple is apparently also looking to begin bringing back its in-store classes. While some stores will see classes return this week, most are planning for them to resume in March.

Apple has been making attempts to return to normal and rolling them back over the last year. Hopefully, the pandemic will allow these changes to stay permanent this time.

What you need to know

• Apple is recruiting for a new Apple Store in eastern Seoul, South Korea.
• Apple is already hiring for another store that's set to open in the same city.
• There are currently two Apple Stores open in South Korea.

Apple is getting ready to open another new Apple Store, this time in eastern Seoul, South Korea.

The new Apple Store is set to open in the east of the city, according to a new round of job openings spotted by Michael Steeber in his Tabletops newsletter.

What's more, this is actually the second new Apple Store to begin recruiting in the city.

Apple recently began looking for team members ahead of a new London Apple Store opening and it seems likely that yet more roles will crop up at similarly unannounced Apple Stores around the world, too.

There are currently two Apple Stores in South Korea — the latest of which opened just a year ago in the form of Apple Yeouido.

What you need to know

• Apple store workers in the U.S. are preparing to unionize.
• At least two stores are backed by major national unions and are preparing to file paperwork.
• More stores are also having talks, spurred by Apple's record financial performance and stagnating wages.

Apple employees at multiple U.S. retail stores are preparing to unionize, says a new report.

From The Washington Post:

The report says that workers are being spurred on by their stagnating wages, which have fallen below the rate of inflation, and the success of Starbucks employees in creating unions.

Employees interviewed by the Post stated that they hadn't shared in the companies gains, with workers making less and selling more products. One said "I have a lot of co-workers and friends who I genuinely love and they do not make enough to get by. They're struggling and they're hurting and we work for a company that has the resources to make sure that they're taken care of."

Apple recently started giving out raises to U.S. employees ranging between 2% and 10% depending on their role and job location.

The process of forming unions has reportedly been done secretly, with employees worried Apple will try to convince employees to vote against a union:

The report cites employees at one store that said managers had already begun pulling employees aside to try and dissuade them.

What you need to know

• Apple is opening a new London Apple Store.
• No official location or name for the store is available yet.
• This will be the UK's first new Apple Store since the Edinburgh store opened in 2014.

Apple is opening another store in London, England and is recruiting team members now.

The latest Apple Store to arrive in the UK doesn't yet have an official name or location beyond the vague "London-UK" title that the company is giving it on its recruitment website. As Michael Steeber's Tabletops newsletter points out, this is the first new Apple Store to pop up in the UK since Apple Edinburgh opened in 2014. The move is also the most significant for Apple Retail in the UK since the renovation of the stunning Covent Garden store — also in London.

Apple is currently recruiting team members for the new store including Specialists in full-time, part-time, and temporary roles.

If you've ever fancied working in an Apple Store and live in London — yes, I know that's a large area! — now might be the time to get an application in.

What you need to know

• Apple may pull out of a planned store in Toronto, Canada.
• The company says it may do so due to continued delays in construction.
• It's unclear what other area Apple may choose to put its planned store.

Apple is apparently threatening to bail on its new retail location in Toronto, Canada.

As reported by The Globe and Mail, the company has reportedly threatened to end its plans to locate its new Apple Store in The One, a new residential skyscraper that is in the process of being built in the city. Apple says that it is exercising its right to abandon the plan due to delays in the building's construction.

The developer of the building says that they were allowed to delay the delivery of the project due to forces outside of its control like the pandemic and a local plumber's strike. Mizrahi claims that Apple responded by "saying it would exercise its rights to terminate the lease and provided a list of items it thought Mizrahi could not deliver." According to the developer, the area that Apple was planned to reside in has been custom-built for the company in mind.

If Mizrahi loses the court battle, the developer will be forced to find another resident for its new retail space. It's currently unclear exactly where Apple would plan to open a store instead (or if it would still do so).

What you need to know

• Apple Store employees in the United States are getting raises.
• Employees are getting raises between 2% to 10% depending on location and role.
• The company is responding to a tightening job market.

A lot of Apple Store employees in the United States are getting a bigger paycheck.

As reported by Bloomberg, the company is increasing pay for "many" of its retail employees in the country as a response to a "tightening labor market, inflation woes and complaints from some staffers about working conditions during the Covid-19 pandemic." According to the report, raises range from anywhere between 2% to 10% depending on the employee's location and role.

Bloomberg says that the pay raises will not replace employees' annual review compensation conversations and instead serve as a one-time adjustment to better align employee compensation with market demands.

Apple has been throwing more money at employees throughout the pandemic. Back in September, the company paid out a one-time $1000 bonus to retail employees as a thank you for their work over the pandemic. In an effort to retain high-level corporate employees, the company paid out as much as $185,000 to some high-level executives.

What you need to know

• Apple's redesigned Yas Mall store in Abu Dhabi is now open.
• The new Apple Yas Mall store is nearly double the size of the original.
• The expanded store features a stunning curved glass exterior and integrates over 150 feet of glass.

Apple's brand new Yas Mall store officially opened its doors today in Abu Dhabi. Nearly double the size of the original location opened in 2015, there's plenty more space for checking out all of Apple's wares and taking part in Today at Apple sessions.

Never one to miss an opportunity for a redesign, the new Apple Yas Mall features a stunning curved glass exterior with floor-to-ceiling panels, a huge free-standing video wall, and, of course, trees. Like other stores around the world, Yas Mall now features Bianco Cristal floors, wood ceilings, and plenty of natural light.

The new Yas Mall store has a prime corner plot in the mall's town square so should get plenty of footfall in one of the UAE's busiest shopping destinations.

If you're in the region and want to head into the store to pick up one of Apple's best iPhone models or just check out the redesigned space, you'll need an appointment.

On its website, Apple says its Yas Mall store is "open with health and safety measures" in place. Whether you want an iPhone 13 or a new Macbook Pro, you can shop by reserving a one-on-one session with a Specialist or get Genius support by making an appointment.

What you need to know

• Apple is offering an extra $25 trade-in value on Apple Watches to celebrate Heart Month.
• Customers can trade in an Apple Watch Series 2 or newer and get up to $235 in credit.
• Credit can be used to buy anything from the Apple Store including a brand new Apple Watch Series 7.

Apple is now giving people an extra $25 when they trade in their old Apple Watch against a new product or to get Apple Store credit. The move is part of a wider celebration of Heart Month that includes a new Apple Watch Activity Challenge and more.

The new trade-in offer means that customers can hand over an Apple Watch Series 2 or newer and get up to $235 in credit that could be used against anything — including a shiny new Apple Watch Series 7. Apple's offer is available in the UK, Canada, US, Italy, Spain, Germany, and the UAE. Those in the United States can learn more about trade-in prices on Apple's website.

Apple says that trade-in prices will return to normal from March 1 so you have four weeks to take advantage of this offer.

Apple Watch Series 7 is the best Apple Watch Apple has ever made and it will remain that way until Apple Watch Series 8 arrives later this year. We still don't know all that much about what to expect from the updated Apple Watch, although a new range of sensors isn't thought to be in the cards for 2022.

Just last month Bloomberg's Mark Gurman poured cold water on any hope that we could see new sensors in Apple Watch Series 8.

What you need to know

• A teenager has been arrested for stealing more than $42,000 in Apple hardware from an Australian Apple Store.
• Security staff found a teenager and accomplice fleeing with "electronic devices."
• Police were able to identify one of the alleged offenders thanks to CCTV footage.

A teenager has been arrested after stealing more than $42,000 worth of Apple gear from an Apple Store in Canberra, Australia.

A 16-year-old teenager and another man broke into the Canberra Centre Apple Store and made off with AU$60,000 in hardware according to local reports. After security staff saw the pair fleeing one dropped a bag carrying Apple products. Later, police were able to identify one of the men using CCTV footage and they were later arrested.

The 16-year-old was due to face a local court last week after being charged with two counts of aggravated burglary, theft, and damage to property

It of course isn't unusual for Apple Stores to be targeted by crooks in this manner, but it's unlikely that the devices that were stolen would have continued to function after the break-in was discovered. Apple can remotely disable devices that are on display and it is those that tend to be stolen due to their ease of access.

The report doesn't say what kind of Apple hardware was stolen, but you have to imagine they were high-value items to be able to walk around with $42,000 worth of kit. High-spec iPhone 14 Pro and MacBook Pro hardware would likely get that value up pretty quickly.

What you need to know

• Apple now requires verification before giving an education discount.
• Students, teachers, and staff members are able to get discounts at Apple.
• People must now verify eligibility via UNiDAYS.

Apple now requires that anyone wishing to take advantage of its education discount prove that they are a student, teacher, or staff member. The move comes after years of very little proof being required when people bought products from Apple. There is little doubt that people have been able to take advantage of the offer when they shouldn't have, something that has surely led to this move.

The crackdown was first noticed by people on Reddit with verification now required via UNiDAYS. Interestingly, this only appears to apply to the United States education discount at the time of writing with the Canadian one remaining wide open.

Apple has updated its education pricing storefront to reflect the change with people able to click through to the UNiDAYS website to complete the authentication and verification process. Once done, orders will be placed as they normally would. It's a process well worth going through especially if you're kitting yourself, or someone else, out for the school year and buying a new MacBook Pro, iPad Air, and other Apple gear.

What you need to know

• Apple has told those eligible for COVID-19 booster shots that they must get them within 4 weeks.
• People who are unvaccinated must have a negative test before they can go to work.
• Apple informed employees via an internal email.

Apple has reportedly told its employees that they must get a COVID-19 booster shot if eligible or take frequent tests in order to go to work. The new rules come into force from February 15 and apply to Apple Stores and offices. Unvaccinated employees have been told that they must have a negative test in hand from January 24.

According to an internal email seen by The Verge, Apple is keen to ensure that people are as vaccinated as possible and will require negative tests if that isn't the case — or they won't be allowed into work.

"Due to waning efficacy of the primary series of COVID-19 vaccines and the emergence of highly transmissible variants such as Omicron, a booster shot is now part of staying up to date with your COVID-19 vaccination to protect against severe disease," Apple states in the memo. according to the report.

Apple has not been shy at closing retail stores in areas where outbreaks have been high while mask requirements have also been in place around the world.

What you need to know

• Apple has added a page to its legal website with links to information about its settlement of a lawsuit related to bag checks.
• Apple agreed to pay $29.9 million to employees who had their bags checked at retail stores.
• Bag checks were carried out outside of work time.

Apple has added a new page to its legal website on which it offers links to more information about its $29.9 million class-action lawsuit settlement relating to Apple Store bag checks. The new website links out to www.AppleBagCheckSettlement.com among other websites.

This all relates to Apple's November settlement after it agreed to pay employees for the time they lost when having their bags searched after finishing work. 14,000 employees will receive a payout based on the hours they worked.

The legal battle first kicked off in 2013 after employees complained that they were losing time during lunch breaks and at the end of their shifts while Apple had their bags checked. The checks were to help combat theft but were said to have violated Californian law.

From our November report:

The best iPhone is one that you didn't steal and Apple was effectively accusing every retail employee of doing exactly that, multiple times per day, all while not paying for the time. Apple employees can learn more about the settlement on Apple's website.

What you need to know

• Apple has continued to close stores across the U.S. following a rise in COVID cases.
• The most recent closures affect New York City.

Apple has continued its spate of U.S. store closures following a rise in cases of COVID-19. Now, and as Bloomberg reports, Apple is now closing 16 stores in New York alone, including essential locations such as the Fifth Ave. store, Grand Central Station, and the World Trade Center. Retail stores in Staton Island and the Bronx have also been affected.

Unlike previous closures, however, Apple is going about the situation in New York in a different way. From Bloomberg:

Apple did something similar with its other recent store closings. Instead of curbside pickup, however, stores around the country offered free two-hour delivery on select products.

This all follows a spike in COVID cases in New York as the Omicron variant of the virus continues its spread. Apple has not yet given a date for the reopening of any of its locations but has continued to say that it monitors conditions in each locality with stores affected by these closures.

The company previously closed over 20 retail locations around the country in states including Texas, Ohio, and Florida.

What you need to know

• An Apple employee group is staging a walkout tomorrow.
• The group, called Apple Together, says they are demanding better working conditions.

Some Apple workers are attempting to stage a walkout on Christmas Eve.

Spotted by Zoë Schiffer from NBC News, a group called Apple Together has posted to Twitter asking for fellow Apple employees to walk out of their offices and stores on the day before Christmas.

The group has a website where it has written the following message:

It's currently unclear how widespread the walkout will be. We'll have to wait until tomorrow to see how effective the effort is with the company's office and retail staff.

What you need to know

• Apple has closed seven of its stores in the last two days.
• The stores have been temporarily closed due to COVID-19 outbreaks.

Apple has shut down a lot more Apple Stores due to the COVID-19 surge.

As reported by Bloomberg, the company has temporarily closed at least seven of its retail stores in the United States and Canada. The company usually closes a store if an outbreak has been recognized with its retail staff.

Below are the list of Apple Stores that have closed due to a COVID-19 outbreak:

• Dadeland in Miami
• The Gardens Mall in Palm Beach
• Lenox Square in Atlanta
• Highland Village in Houston
• Summit Mall in Ohio
• Pheasant Lane in New Hampshire
• Sainte-Catherine in Montreal

Apple made its usual statement to Bloomberg, citing their "comprehensive approach for our teams" to keep employees and customers safe.

Apple has been struggling to keep its retail stores open during the latest COVID-19 surge. At the beginning of the month, it temporarily closed one of its stores in Texas due to the same issue.

As a way to help customers near an Apple Store on the last few days before Christmas, the company is now offering free two hour delivery on some products. The shipping method usually costs customers $9 per order, so this is a nice last minute offer from the company as it struggles to keep its stores open.

What you need to know

• Apple is offering free two-hour delivery on some orders.
• iPhones, iPads, Macs, and Apple Watches are available.
• Buyers need to live in a "metro area" and not use financing or bank transfer as payment.

Apple is offering shoppers the chance to get last-minute Christmas gifts in double-quick time via a free-two-hour delivery offer. Buyers can pick up a new Mac, iPhone, iPad, or Apple Watch and have their order delivered to them for free so long as they happen to live in "most metro areas."

The move, which mimics one Apple has been making for the last couple of years, means that people won't need to head into an Apple Store to get that Christmas gift. That's a big deal at a time where the COVID-19 pandemic means people are likely less keen to make a trip to a mall.

There are, as ever, caveats. While you can buy an iPhone 13, for example, anyone wanting something like an AirTag is out of luck. Only specific products are included as part of this offer and even then, only if you live in the right part of the country. For obvious reasons, things like engraving aren't possible and you're limited in how you can pay. Apple says that the offer is not available for certain order types including orders paid for with financing or by bank transfer.

If you're good with all that, this might just be the best iPhone buying experience yet. Just place an order and your new iPhone will be with you more quickly than anything Amazon can manage — and you can do it all from the Apple website or via the Apple Store iPhone and iPad app, too.

What you need to know

• Apple has temporarily closed three of its retail stores.
• The stores that were closed are in the United States and Canada.
• Apple closed the stores due to a rise in COVID-19 cases among store employees.

Apple Stores are starting to close due to COVID-19 again.

As reported by Bloomberg, Apple has temporarily closed three of its retail stores due to a rise of COVID-19 cases and exposures among store employees. The three stores affected by the closure are the ones at the Brickell City Centre in Miami, Annapolis, Maryland, and downtown Ottawa.

Apple said in a statement that the closures are part of the company's "comprehensive approach for our teams" that is designed to "support the well-being of customers and employees."

In response to a rise of COVID-19 cases around the world, fueled by the Delta and Omicron variants, Apple has also reinstated its mask mandate in the United States. It said that it is also going to begin limiting the number of customers it allows into its stores at a time.

Apple has temporarily closed a store here and there throughout the year. This is the first time in recent memory, however, that it has needed to close multiple stores at the same time.

What you need to know

• Apple's retail location in Southlake, Texas has temporarily closed due to COVID-19.
• Twenty-two employees have tested postive for the virus.
• The store will remain closed until next week.

Apple has temporarily closed one of its retail locations due to a COVID-19 outbreak.

As reported by NBC News, the Apple Store in Southlake, Texas has temporarily closed after twenty-two of its employees were exposed to COVID-19. According to the store's website, the company plans to reopen the location on Monday next week.

One employee said that the store did not follow the company's social distancing policies on Black Friday. Another said they were experiencing symptoms but were encouraged to come into work anyway.

Like every company on earth, Apple has been struggling to return to some semblance of normalcy with all of its operations since the start of the pandemic. The company has continuously opened and closed retail stores as COVID-19 cases rise and fall in areas around the world.

What you need to know

• Apple is reportedly turning shoppers away when they visit Turkish stores.
• Apple has already stopped accepting online orders.

Following the news that the Turkish online Apple Store is no longer accepting orders, it now appears that Apple's physical stores are following suit. Multiple Turkish Apple Stores are said to be turning customers away, although those seeking support are being allowed in — they just can't buy anything.

According to photos shared by macReports, long lines have formed due to the "economic crisis" in the country.

The issue is said to be caused by related to economic uncertainty surrounding the Turkish currency, Lira. Some Apple Store employees are going so far as to tell customers that price hikes should be expected once products go back on sale.

It isn't clear what the next steps here might be, but at the moment it seems impossible to buy anything directly from Apple if you want to do it in Turkey. It's likely we will see Apple either increase its prices to compensate for the collapse of the local currency, or for some economic miracle to cause it to recover. Right now, buying a product like the iPhone 13 in Turkey isn't as easy as you might think, although buying the best iPhone ever made is unlikely to be at the top of many shopping lists in the country right now.

What you need to know

• Apple has temporarily halted the sale of its products in Turkey.
• Customers are unable to use the online Apple Store to make a purchase.
• It is unclear when Apple will resume the sale of its products in the country.

Apple has temporarily halted the sales of its products in Turkey.

According to a report from MacRumors, customers in the country are able to go to the Apple Store website and shop around for all of the different products contained on the site.

However, they are currently unable to add any of the products in stock to their cart or make a purchase for anything that was existing in their cart before the change.

It's currently unclear when Apple may resume the sale of its products in the country.

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan has refused rate cuts in the country as it has experienced almost twenty percent inflation. The value of the Turkish lira has dropped forty-five percent when compared to the United States dollar over the course of the year.

What you need to know

• Apple Rosenthaler Strasse is getting ready to open in Berlin, Germany.
• Apple has shared new exclusive wallpapers to celebrate the new store.
• Rosenthaler Strasse will be the second store in Berlin.

Apple has confirmed that it will soon open a new retail store in Berlin, Germany, with Apple Rosenthaler Strasse now official. Apple hasn't yet confirmed exactly when the new store will open, however.

The news comes as the company shares exclusive iPhone, iPad, and Mac wallpapers that people can put onto their devices in preparation for the big opening day.

The new wallpapers are available at the new store's web page, with Apple also saying that the new store will open in Mitte — right at the heart of Berlin.

Via Google Translate:

Twitter user Storeteller has also been able to share a photo of the new store, currently covered in similar artwork to that of the new wallpapers.

Apple might not have been able to get the store ready for iPhone 13 launch day but it will surely be the best iPhone buying experience in town once it's open.

Apple Stores are much more than retail outlets, of course. They're places where people can go to get support or just learn about their new device — and maybe pick up some accessories while they're there!

What you need to know

• Apple has unveiled its new relocated retail store in Los Angeles.
• Apple The Grove opened its new doors to customers just in time for holiday shopping.

Today, Apple opened its relocated Apple Store in Los Angeles.

The new Apple The Grove opened its doors to customers in the city right in time for holiday shopping. The new location is twice the size of the original store and adopts the modern designs that we now come to expect from a relocated, redesigned, or new location for the company.

The old store, as detailed in an earlier report, served over 27 million visitors over 19 years. The new store wasn't quite ready in time for iPhone 13 time, but it's here now and will no doubt be the focus for many big iPhone launches over the coming years.

The big opening saw Apple CEO Tim Cook and head of people Deirdre O'Brien put in an appearance as Apple got yet another flagship store underway.

Customers who are interested in visiting Apple The Grove can visit the store page on the Apple website. Anyone local should drop in for a look — this new store will undoubtedly offer the best iPhone buying experience in town!

What you need to know

• A new Apple Store looks set to open on Rosenthaler Straße in Berlin, Germany.
• We've been hearing of a second Berlin Apple store for months and it's now closer to completion than ever.

We've been hearing talk of a second Berlin Apple Store for months now and it seems it might be getting ready for an unveiling, although Apple is yet to confirm the store's existence.

We heard back in April that Rosenthaler Straße was the likely spot for a new Apple Store, with construction having already missed its late-2020 window for completion. Now, as we edge nearer the end of 2021, privacy screens have been removed from the unit — with a black box covering what is very likley to be the telltale Apple logo.

iFun, via Apple's machine translation:

A Polish interiore designer also appears to be taking credit for whatever work has gone in onside the building, saying work was completed recently while sharing that they have worked with Apple since 2013.

If this is indeed an Apple Store — and it seems very likely that it is at this point — we can expect to hear something official from Apple eventually.

What you need to know

• Apple The Grove will open in Los Angeles on November 19.
• Apple says its new store is twice the size of the one that it replaces.

Reports from last month that a new Los Angeles Apple Store was coming today turned out to be true, with Apple confirming that Apple The Grove will open on November 19.

The new store is actually an old one that's moving location and Apple says that its new digs are twice the size of the old spot, giving it more room to breathe.

The store was spotted a month ago when Bloomberg's Mark Gurman tweeted images of its exterior.

The new store is likely to be a great spot to pick up a hot new iPhone 13, assuming stocks are plentiful of course. Apple is expected to be able to better deal with demand as we work our way through the remainder of 2021, although that all very much depends on so many variables it's difficult to know for sure.

With Apple's best iPhone struggling to keep up with demand, you have to imagine a new Apple Store will be one of the best places to try your luck on opening day, right?

What you need to know

• Some Apple Stores in the United States are rolling back their mask requirement.
• Customers at select stores will no longer be required to wear a mask.
• Employees, however, will still need to wear a mask at all stores.

Apple Stores in the United States are about to drop their mandatory mask mandate.

According to a new report from Bloomberg, Apple is removing the mask mandate for customers at a number of its retail locations in the United States as COVID-19 cases fall and vaccinations increase.

The internal memo said that Apple's Environment, Health, and Safety (EHS) team determined that the current trends allow for the change in the stores where it will be occurring. While customers will no longer be required to wear masks, employees will still need to.

Apple has been slowly attempting to return to some sense of pre-pandemic normalcy for a while now. The company has moved forward and backward as far as health guidance in its stores and offices for months.

What you need to know

• Mark Gurman believes a new Apple Store is coming to the Grove mall in Los Angeles.
• The journalist stumbled upon new construction across from the aging Apple Store in the mall.
• It appears Apple may be upgrading its presence at the location with a whole new store.

It looks like Bloomberg's Mark Gurman may have just stumbled on a new Apple Store.

In the latest issue of the journalist's Power On newsletter, Gurman himself found what appears to be a new Apple Store that could be coming to the Grove mall in Los Angeles, California. The location is coincidentally right across from an older Apple Store which gives more authority to the rumor as Apple has opened new stores near its old ones multiple times.

Gurman did say that he was unable to see inside the store so it is currently unknown how far the construction process has come along.

If Apple does open a new location, it will be sure to adopt much of the design of the company's newer stores: massive windows, indoor greenery, accents of leather and wood, and more.