Apple announced Friday that it was shutting down all of its retail stores outside of greater China for two weeks, to help reduce the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus around the globe.
Apple has now announced an extended return policy for items purchased before the closing, saying it will accept returns for up to 14 days after its stores reopen.
In an FAQ, Apple explained the new policy, along with information about repairs:
Q: I want to return a product I recently purchased but the 14-day return period will end before March 28—what should I do?
A: Don’t worry. We’ll accept your return up to 14 days after we reopen.*
*Exclusions: Contracted iPhones (US, CA, JP, AU); Carrier financing (US only); Trade-in devices (value of device can be given in form of gift card)
As for repairs, the company says it is working to complete all repairs and that if a device is awaiting parts or is ready for pickup, an Apple employee will be in touch.
Q: My device is at an Apple Store for repair. When can I get it back?
A: We are working to complete all repairs. If your device is ready for pick up or is awaiting parts, a Team Member will contact you with details. If ready for pickup, you can collect your device on March 15 or 16 between 12:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. You can check the repair status at http://www.apple.com/support
Q: What’s the status of my repair?
A: You can check the status of a repair online at http://support.apple.com/repair
Q: I need to get my device repaired. How can I do that if retail stores closed?
A: You can start a repair online or contact support at http://www.apple.com/support
As for Genius Bar appointments:
Q: I scheduled a Genius Bar appointment before March 27. Will you be open for that?
A: We will not host Genius Bar appointments before we reopen on March 28. You can reschedule your appointment and get self help at http://www.apple.com/support
More info is available in the full FAQ on Apple’s website.