The coronavirus affecting Apple's overseas operations has caused a shortage of iPhone replacements, the company warned retail store employees

According to Bloomberg, Apple store employees said that technical associates (aka Geniuses) were advised that replacements for damaged iPhones would be sparse for up to four weeks A note sent to them suggested that, amidst the delays, they would be provided with a replacement unit until the replacement order could be completed by mail

When a device is brought to the Genius bar and deemed unrepairable, Apple typically provides a refurbished replacement iPhone rather than offering a new model right out of the box

However, the company often attempts to replace individual parts For example, if the screen is cracked or one of the volume buttons is broken, there is no need to purchase an entirely new iPhone

However, Apple employees told Bloomberg that these individual parts are also in low stock and that they are feeling the effects of shortages in stores

The coronavirus has hit Apple particularly hard in recent weeks However, the situation is showing signs of improvement As of this writing, nearly all Apple store outlets in China have reopened, and the factory that manufactures the iPhone 9 is back at work

It is too early to say whether the iPhone 9 launch is on schedule We previously thought Apple planned to launch the budget iPhone at the end of this month