Apple is indefinitely suspending its planned return-to-office deadline due to the resurgence of COVID-19 cases in the U.S. and the emergence of the omicron variant of the coronavirus. The company also announced that all employees would be getting a $1,000 bonus each for their work-from-home needs.
The company initially announced a return-to-office deadline on Feb. 1. Apple said Wednesday that it is now canceling that deadline and moving it to a "date yet to be determined." The announcement was made via a memo sent by the company's CEO, Tim Cook. An Apple representative also confirmed the decision on the same day.
The announcement comes just weeks after the company asked employees to return to their offices by February. The return-to-office deadline had already been pushed back several times due to the surge in new COVID-19 cases. Other major tech companies, including Microsoft, have also moved their return-to-work deadlines several times.
Earlier in the week, Apple announced that it was reinstating its mask mandate for all its U.S. outlets. The company said all employees and customers would be required to wear masks when entering its stores. Apple also shut down three of its locations after some employees tested positive for the virus.
In the memo, Cook said they have once again decided to delay their "hybrid work pilot." He added that some of their offices outside the U.S., including those in Greater China, will remain open, and a lot of employees are already returning back to their offices.
When Apple's U.S. employees return to the workplace, they will be required to work Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays in person. On Wednesdays and Fridays, depending on their team, they will be able to work from home. In addition, the employer is giving an extra month of work from home time. Cook stated that Apple employees would be given at least four weeks' notice before a new back-to-work date takes effect.
Cook cited the recent surge in COVID-19 cases around the world and the emergence of the omicron variant as the main reasons for the decision. Cook also encouraged all employees to get vaccinated and booster shots, stating that it would be the best way for them to protect themselves and the community.
Cook said Apple would be giving each employee a $1,000 bonus to be utilized for their work-from-home requirements. He added that the funds are part of the company's ongoing support for a more flexible environment. Cook said the funds would be sent as soon as possible, and employees are free to use it as they see fit.
