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Apple Staff Strike Over Conditions on iPhone 18 Pro Launch Day
18 Sep
Summary
- Over 1,600 employees in 17 Apple stores participated in the strike.
- Union demands include hiring more staff and permanent contracts.
- Apple stated its retail stores operated normally during the strike.
On September 18, 2026, Italian Apple store employees initiated a full-day strike protesting their working conditions on the launch day of the new iPhone 18 Pro. The industrial action involved more than 1,600 workers across 17 Apple retail locations.
Trade unions, including Filcams CGIL and Fiascast CISL, organized the strike and picket lines in major cities. Their primary concerns include a perceived worsening of working conditions, confusing job roles, and a lack of attention to employee well-being.
The unions are advocating for increased staffing levels, the conversion of fixed-term contracts to permanent ones, and expanded working hours for part-time employees. Apple responded by affirming that its stores were operating as usual and emphasized its provision of industry-leading compensation and benefits.
The launch of the iPhone 18 Pro, with retail prices starting at €1,489, coincided with the introduction of Apple's first foldable smartphone, the Duo, set for release on October 23, 2026.
