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Apple Accelerates Store Overhaul, Reintroduces Dedicated Genius Bars

The move signals a shift toward prioritizing in-store service, support, online order fulfillment across Apple’s global retail network.

Overview

  • Bloomberg’s Power On reported Sunday that Apple will speed up a multi-year program to renovate existing stores rather than push rapid new openings.
  • Many stores will replace large video walls with all-wood Genius Bars that include two counter heights for accessibility, storage drawers, and product posters.
  • The store sides known as the Avenue will be split into roughly 10-foot wooden bays for secure online pickups and separate Today at Apple sessions with instructor tables and displays.
  • Apple has tested parts of the redesign at select international locations and plans a phased global rollout over the next several years while also updating back-of-house and staff spaces.
  • Staff-facing changes include tighter pre-opening rules, and the overall shift toward visible service and fulfillment could speed repairs, simplify pickups, and alter daily customer and employee routines.