It's being revealed this afternoon that Apple Inc. plans to drop its mask requirement for vaccinated customers at many U.S. stores beginning next week, a move that will mark yet another major retailer moving away from the Covid-19 safety protocol as states ease restrictions.

"The technology giant has begun informing retail employees of the impending change in impacted markets, according to people with knowledge of the matter, who declined to be identified discussing policy changes that haven’t been announced. The change will go into effect as early as Tuesday, and employees have been told that they won’t be required to ask customers for verification of vaccination." That could end up being a problem. But until it is, customers who are honestly vaccinated will finally feel like life is getting back to normal. 

Bloomberg's report further noted that "Workers will still need to wear masks at stores, Apple told staff. The company could change its plans or delay the loosening of the restriction. The requirement for face coverings will also be dropped at some of the Cupertino, California-based company’s U.S. offices, according to a memo sent to corporate employees."

According to the memo: "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. 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." For more, read the full Bloomberg report on BNN Bloomberg.

No news of their plan for Stores outside the U.S. were mentioned at this time.

Earlier this month Apple's CEO sent a memo to employees about a work pilot program that would require employees to go to work for 3 days a week and continue to work at home 2 days a week. A group of employees openly rebelled wanting a more flexible schedule.