The tech giant Apple has issued an apology to Chinese consumers after months of customer complaints. CCTV reporter Neela Eyunni has more on people's reactions and what this could mean for the future of Apple in China.
Chinese consumers finally got what they had been waiting for from Apple, and it wasn't a new gadget. The electronics giant apologized on Monday for miscommunications over warranties. In a letter, CEO Tim Cook said the company was sorry for consumers' concerns and misunderstandings and vowed to improve its warranty policies.
The apology is already drawing reactions from Apple customers.
An Apple customer said:" I think it was important for Apple to apologize because China is one of its biggest markets and holds a lot of potential for the company."
An Apple customer said:" The apology was really needed because Apple provides better services in other countries than it does in China. The company also kept postponing saying sorry."
Apple's apology comes amid escalating complaints in China. Earlier this month, the company was criticized over its after-sale services. The tech giant offers a one- year warranty, which conflicts with Chinese law that states warranties on computer sales must be a minimum of two years.
In the apology letter, Apple promised to have new warranty explanations on its Chinese site. While it's a small step, the move is being welcomed not only by consumers but retailers as well.
Wu Zhenfang, store manager of Apple Retailer, Beijing, said:"By improving their services Apple will give Chinese people a better understanding of their company and be better equipped to meet the needs of customers here."
But while Apple has issued an apology and promised better communication the question now is what action is the tech giant willing to take to restore consumer confidence and secure its place in the Chinese market.