Apple invites retail employees to help at September iPhone event

Apple has invited US retail employees to apply for support roles at its September iPhone event, where the company is expected to introduce the iPhone 18 Pro and its first foldable iPhone.



Bloomberg reports that Apple has opened an internal lottery for retail staff who want to travel to California and help manage the event. Selected employees will organize lines, check in guests, greet attendees, provide directions, and support security teams during the launch.



Apple told employees that the event will take place during the first half of September, although the company has not confirmed the exact date. The memo described the program as an opportunity for US store team members to join its Event Support Experience Program.



Apple sets application deadline for retail staff



Retail employees must submit their applications by August 8, while Apple plans to notify selected workers by August 17. Employees who supported this year’s Worldwide Developers Conference or last year’s iPhone event cannot apply for the upcoming program.



Apple has used retail workers at major product events for several years, giving store employees a chance to support launches outside their usual locations. Their work helps Apple manage invited guests, media representatives, partners, and other attendees at Apple Park.



Bloomberg says Apple will likely hold the iPhone event on Wednesday, September 9, because Labor Day falls on September 7 this year. A Wednesday event would give attendees enough travel time after the holiday while matching Apple’s usual September schedule.



If Apple follows its normal launch pattern, iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone Fold pre-orders should begin on Friday, September 11, followed by the official release one week later.