Apple considers dropping face mask mandate for Apple Store staff
William Gallagher
Having now lifted its requirement for customers to wear face coverings, Apple is reportedly considering allowing staff to do the same.
Apple lifted its mask mandate for a number of in-store shopping locations in states such as Ohio, Georgia, and more. While it has yet to lift the restriction across all of its stores, reporter Mark Gurman claims it is considering letting Apple Store staff take off masks too.
Hearing Apple is considering dropping the mandate for retail employees too in as early as two weeks. https://t.co/YdwMFazuOp
— Mark Gurman (@markgurman) February 23, 2022
It's not clear whether such a move would only apply to the same stores where customers are no longer required to wear face coverings.
Apple had previously relaxed its mask mandate in November 2021, but changing coronavirus conditions meant the requirement was re-introduced in December 2021.
Also not clear is if this move heralds in-person Apple events, like the summer WWDC. The expected spring release event will likely still be remote.
Wesley Hilliard
Malcolm Owen
Christine McKee
David Schloss
53 Comments
I haven't had as much as a cold since January of 2020. I will be masking in stores for the rest of my life.
Horrible news! Where will triple (or quadruple?) vaxed maskaholics shop for their Apple products in guaranteed safety?
Without masks, there will be no store policy to physically distance. 'If' I go into a store, I will wear a mask and treat those without masks like I do people with bad breath by politely backing away from them. No doubt some will be offended but my health is more important than their feelings.