Bloomberg reports that Apple delayed its plans to bring employees back to work until January due to concerns about an increase in COVID-19-related cases and the possibility of new variants.
Apple originally planned to resume in-person work in September but delayed it until October. Due to ongoing concerns, this timeframe has been extended until January.
Deirdre Obrien, Apple's human resources and retail chief, sent a memo to employees, which Bloomberg obtained. She stated that Apple does not plan to close any of its retail stores or offices, but that it is encouraging employees to get vaccines. Apple is not like other companies that require employees to get vaccinated.
Staff were informed by the company that they would confirm the reopening timeline within a month. Employees are not required to return to work until then. Apple previously stated that all employees should return to the corporate offices by September, but it was delayed until October. Employees will have to return to the office at least three times per week, Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday. Remote work is available on Wednesday and Friday. Deirdre Obrien, head of human resources, wrote a memo to employees stating that the company doesn't plan to close its retail stores or offices. She strongly advised staff to get vaccinated. Although the company has not yet required testing or vaccinations, it is increasing its testing program to up to three coronavirus tests at home per week. A spokeswoman for Apple declined to comment on this memo.
Apple employees have criticized Apple's plans for a return to work. They claim the company is not being sensitive to staff who prefer to work remotely. Apple will have employees back in the office on average three days per week. The rest of the time, employees will work remotely.
