Apple dropping mask mandate for customers in stores: report

Apple is ditching its COVID-19 mask mandate for in-person shoppers beginning this week, allowing vaccinated customers to enter many of its U.S. stores without a facial covering, according to Bloomberg.

Workers must continue to wear masks regardless of their vaccination status, but will not ask customers for proof that they've been inoculated, according to the report, which cited people with knowledge of the matter. Apple is also dropping its mask requirement for its office-based employees in certain regions, according to an internal memo obtained by Bloomberg.  "Given the progress being made in response to Covid-19 in the U.S., we wanted to let you know that a number of sites are now moving to the next phase of resumption and will begin to operate under Phase 3 onsite protocol," the memo read, according to Bloomberg. "In Phase 3, where allowed, Apple protocols are being updated to permit optional masking for vaccinated individuals. Physical distancing requirements are also being relaxed in this phase."