Italian Apple store employees strike on iPhone 18 Pro launch day

Italian Apple Store employees went on strike on the day of the iPhone 18 Pro launch, Friday, to protest their working conditions. The Filcams CGIL, Fisascat CISL, and Uiltucs trade unions organized the strike, which lasted all day with pickets at some Apple stores. In Milan, dozens of workers gathered outside the company's flagship glass-cube store, waving red flags and making noise.

The strike involved over 1,600 employees across 17 Apple stores, according to Fisascat CISL. An Apple spokesperson confirmed the company's retail and online stores would remain open as usual, inviting customers as they normally do. The new iPhone 18 Pro, introduced alongside Apple's first foldable phone, the Duo, went on sale worldwide on Friday.

Retail prices in Italy begin at €1,489 ($1,710). Unions argue that the launch of the new iPhones means more work for Apple retail staff, whose job descriptions are becoming increasingly vague and focused on customer care. They demand more job security, the transition of fixed-term employees to permanent positions, and the option for part-time staff to work longer hours if desired.

Apple's spokesperson emphasized the company's commitment to providing top-notch compensation and benefits, including private medical, dental, and vision coverage, as well as mental health and wellness support.