Apple Store (retail)

Apple Retail Stores are operated by Apple Inc. The stores feature the Apple product line; "solution zones" for movies, photos, music and kids; accessories, and a "Genius Bar" at which Apple product owners can discuss technical issues or bring their computers in for service.

Locations
The first Apple Retail Store was opened on May 19, 2001 at Tysons Corner Center in McLean, Virginia. Flagship stores were opened in New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago and San Francisco. Apple was awarded numerous architectural awards for its store design, particularly its SoHo location. By February 2003, Apple opened 76 retail stores in the U.S. and three international stores in Tokyo, Osaka, and London. By 2020, Apple had over 500 store locations.

Opening of new stores have turned into a happening among avid Mac users. The events often attract thousands of customers, waiting in line to get in first. Apple co-founder Steve Jobs was known to personally visit the Palo Alto store near his home.

The first store in Europe opened in London on Regent Street at 10am on November 20, 2004. Stores across Asia, particularly China, have become substantial revenue generators for Apple.

Effect of COVID-19 pandemic
In February 2020, Apple closed their retail stores in China in response to the 2019–20 coronavirus pandemic caused by the COVID-19 virus. Apple then closed all of their store locations worldwide through March 27. Apple later clarified that all stores outside of China would remain closed until further notice.

All 42 retail stores in China were reopened on March 13, 2020 as the outbreak in China was stated to be under control. This was followed by the reopening of Apple's store in Seoul, South Korea on April 18, with limited hours and an emphasis on repair appointments. U.S. stores are tentatively scheduled to begin opening on a rolling basis in May, based on local conditions and guidelines. However, future product launch dates may be affected due to disruptions in Apple's manufacturing supply chain.

On the early morning of April 17 in California, Apple's retail store closure page due to the COVID-19 pandemic was briefly redirected to the pre-order page of the newly announced 2nd generation iPhone SE. However, this was quickly reverted after the pre-orders became active.