Tech giant Apple introduces ‘shop with a specialist over video’

American phone and computer maker Apple has unveiled what it calls shop with a “Shop with a Specialist over Video” in the United States.

The new way of shopping allows shoppers to browse for iPhones online with the help of an employee over a one-way video call.

The technology company announced that its staff will advise on the latest models, explain new features, and inform customers about trade-in offers, carrier deals, and various finance options.

“With Shop with a Specialist over Video, our team members are excited to connect with customers and provide exceptional service as they learn about which iPhone best suits them,” said Apple’s head of retail online, Karen Rasmussen.

“Once connected, customers can compare features, colours, sizes, and find the best deal through the Apple Trade-In program or their carrier.

“During the session, an Apple team member will be on camera sharing their screen, but they will not be able to see the customer.”

It has come to BusinessTech Africa’s attention that customers can use devices without a camera to access the shopping feature.

Nevertheless, they will still need a microphone and speakers to communicate.

“The feature is an evolution of Apple’s existing “shop with a specialist” option which lets customers reserve time at a store to shop with the assistance of an employee,” it added.

Through the statement, the company has not indicated whether it will expand the feature beyond its iPhone range.