Apple said to release iPhone app for in-store appointments

[Melech518]

Apple plans to release a new "Concierge" application for the iPhone and iPod touch that will allow customers to schedule appointments at retail stores according to AppleInsider.

According to the source that has proven reliable in the past, the App Store software will allow anyone to view memberships and make appointments for services at retail stores, like the Genius Bar or One to One. No release date or the alleged application was provided.

The information on the potential new iPhone application was corroborated Monday in a separate report from MacRumors.

Customers can currently schedule appointments and make ProCare reservations via Apple's retail Web site. In addition to One to One and the Genius Bar, reservations can be made for personal shopping, workshops, youth programs and businesses. The description would suggest that the App Store software would simply be an extension of these capabilities.

In recent weeks, Apple has been expanding the relationship between its Web site and its retail outlets. Earlier this month, the Cupertino, Calif., company unveiled a holiday shopping in-store pickup option. The system will allow customers the ability to ensure products will be available for them to purchase before the holidays. Reserve and Pick Up allows customers to reserve an iPod or Mac online and pick it up at the nearest retail store between Dec. 15 and 24.

Apple has big plans for its retail stores in the coming year. Ron Johnson, the company's senior vice president of Retail, said last week that 50 new locations will debut in 2010.

Apple will also go bigger, as Johnson said officials realized that some of their stores were too small. All future locations, he said, will be at least "three tables wide," and the Mac maker also plans to have more "significant stores" that attract attention. The company's famous glass cube store on Fifth Ave. in New York City was said this year to be the most profitable store in the pricey district. It is estimated that the store has annual sales of more than $350 million.

[blkcadi]

Pretty cool, do you have a source for this?

[Melech518]

Pretty cool, do you have a source for this?

It's listed in the article

[jpeepers]

Yet Another useless app.

You know what would be better? If they could just help people out when they walk into the store. They act like they are some high end exclusive restaurant or something. It's a store, I shouldn't have to book an appointment to get some help

[confucious]

I've never been to an Apple store - maybe I should arrange to see a Genius....

[Melech518]

Yet Another useless app.

You know what would be better? If they could just help people out when they walk into the store. They act like they are some high end exclusive restaurant or something. It's a store, I shouldn't have to book an appointment to get some help

Lol, sounds like YOU are the one who thinks they are high and mighty. Have you ever been to an Apple store? the place is overcrowded and under staffed. Ever noticed the lines for the genius bar?? But, In every single Apple store there are greeters in place in the entrance. These greeters ask you what you are in the store for and if they can help you. They also can put you in place for the next available sales associate or answer any questions. It is very difficult to help every single customer who walks into the store without some kind of routine. The Apple store is the ONLY retail store that actually has this system in place where you can book in advance Personal shopping and Genius bar support. Ever been to a BestBuy and have to walk around for 20-30 minutes praying someone will help you with a simple question in any of the electronic departments? I am very curious to see how many stores you visit who have a system in place like this and how this app is "useless" to you??

[confucious]

Finally made the main news page - unless Melech518 is editing his post times just to make it look like he posted first...

Apple's Appointment App in the Works?

[Melech518]

lol, no, Mr.Essany stole my article, again

[confucious]

lol, no, Mr.Essany stole my article, again

In which case - how can you explain how this post is dated 1983?

[Cer0]

I love being able to make appointments when I have to go to the Apple store. For one I hate the Mall of America and don't like being in there in the first place . But when I have chances to go in it is during the busy time. If you get there early you may be able to get help early. I had this happen twice. Got there 20-30 mins early and was looking at some stuff when they had a brief opening to replace my iPhone. Melech is very correct, when you walk into a Best Buy or other retailers you have to wait or hunt down someone that doesn't even know much about the stuff because "It is not my normal area. Let me find someone to help you more." I probably will still use the website to make the appointment but having a app on the phone is not bad.