Apple previews Changsha store in China ahead of grand opening on Sept. 4

Located in the Changsha IFS shopping mall, Apple's latest storefront features all the trappings of a modern Apple Store and a few unique touches like a double-height facade with a "completely new" gradient frit and mirrored coating.

The tall glass panels manufactured in Tianjin, China, transition from translucent to opaque and shift in appearance as the day progresses. Seasons also affect the facade's look, Apple says, adding that Apple Changsha is the first to receive the treatment.

Inside, visitors immediately enter the Forum, where a freestanding video wall is ready present Today at Apple sessions. Apple's trademark wooden display tables surround the forum and are flanked by "avenues" filled with accessories for iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch and more. The avenue is also the place to find AirPods and Beats products.

Free-roaming specialists and Geniuses offer help to customers throughout the store, including a section directly behind the video wall that features tables and seating. Nearly 100 retail team members man the location and collectively speak a variety of languages including Chinese, English, Japanese, Korean and French.

"We are thrilled to be opening in Changsha, a community filled with creativity and profound cultural heritage," said Deirdre O'Brien, Apple's senior vice president of Retail + People. "So many of our team members already call Hunan province home, and they are ready to welcome and support their neighborhood at Apple Changsha."

Apple Changsha opens Saturday, Sept. 4, at 10 a.m. local time. Like other Apple Stores around the world, the Changsha outlet will adhere to COVID-19 protocols that include a mask requirement, temperature checks and social distancing.