Just like every other retailer, Apple closed its stores when the COVID-19 pandemic hit. Many stores have re-opened since then (and some closed again), but Apple also started experimenting with a new "Express" store experience that put safety first. It clearly worked as more retail locations are now being converted into Express stores.
As Reuters reports, Apple operates about 20 Express stores at the moment. The experimental conversion was first tried at the Apple Burlingame retail store in California back in early September. A new counter was installed that placed staff behind plexiglass panels so they can still interact with customers, but without coming into direct contact with them. The store then acts primarily as an Express Pickup location for online orders and to offer Genius Bar service.
Deirdre O’Brien, senior vice president of retail and people at Apple, has confirmed to Reuters that 50 Express stores will be in operation across the US and Europe by the end of October. "It's a swifter way for us to serve customers," O'Brien said. "It allows us to maintain all the appropriate social distancing and maintain all of our health protocols within our stores."
It's not clear which retail locations are being converted, but it will become obvious once the new counters are installed. Apple needs as many stores open as it can to help handle the demand for iPhone 12 over the next few months, and it doesn't want retail employees being infected with the virus as they serve hundreds of customers each day, so 50 store conversions is likely to be just the tip of the iceberg.