Chaos ensues at iPhone 17 unveiling in Mumbai due to crowd control issues, resulting in a physical altercation.
In a surprising turn of events, the sale of the highly anticipated iPhone 17 series in Mumbai was marked by chaos and disorganisation. As Apple looks to expand its retail presence in India, local management teams may find themselves under pressure to strengthen safety and crowd control measures at future launches.
The excitement for Apple's latest products remains undiminished, with the launch lineup including the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro Max, AirPods 3, Watch Series 11, Watch SE3, and Watch Ultra 3. Unveiled globally on September 9, the devices have driven massive demand across India, with flagship stores in major cities witnessing long queues.
However, the launch event at the BKC Jio Centre in Mumbai on Friday, September 19, 20XX, failed to ensure a safe and orderly experience. Hundreds of people queued up early in the morning for the sale, but a lack of structured queuing system and poor crowd management led to the chaos.
The heavy footfall of the iPhone 17 series sale attracted onlookers, further straining the already thin security arrangements. Videos of the chaotic scene are circulating on social media, showing a scuffle among those gathered and the deployment of security personnel to maintain order. Fortunately, no injuries were reported during the incident, but many customers expressed frustration over the mismanagement.
The scuffle during the sale highlights the potential for inadequate planning to overshadow the celebratory mood. As Apple continues to expand in India, it will be crucial for the company and local management teams to address these issues and ensure a smooth and safe launch experience for customers.
Despite the hiccups, the demand for the iPhone 17 series remains strong in India. The devices are set to bring innovative features and improvements, making them a sought-after addition to many tech enthusiasts' collections.
As the dust settles on the chaotic launch in Mumbai, Apple and its management teams will have a chance to reflect on the events and make necessary adjustments to ensure a more organised and safe launch experience in the future.