Apple's apology to customers reflects importance of China market
Analysts doubt warranty row, for which Apple has apologised, will affect sales on mainland
Apple's apology to its customers on the mainland highlights the importance of the market to the tech giant, industry analysts said.
They said although chief executive Tim Cook's open letter took some time coming, it should hurt neither the computer maker's brand image nor its sales.
Two weeks after CCTV, the national television station, criticised Apple's after-sales service, followed by other state-controlled media, the US firm posted an apology on its website on Monday and said it would double the warranty for Chinese consumers to two years, which is what mainland law requires.
Beijing-based independent industry commentator Xiang Ligang said the warranty extension would not drive up iPad and iPhone prices on the mainland because Apple faces intense competition.
"In the past it had no rivals, but now its competitors are just one step behind," he said.
On Sina Weibo and other online platforms, popular opinion contrasts with that of the state media. "Apple has changed my iPhone free of charge three times, and I'm satisfied with their service," one user said.