iTunes released and banned Phone Story, an app that allowed Apple customers to take a tour of the production of their iPhone. Apple is also guilty of using an inexpensive method of manufacturing for one of the best phones in the market, the iPhone. Reports indicate that the dazzling Apple iPhone was produced in Chinese sweatshops. Apple isn’t the only company guilty of using sweatshops. Not too long ago, Nike became aware of how the use of sweatshops could be detrimental to their image. Companies often turn to these manufacturing methods in order to lower production costs and maximize profit. Although the vast majority of iPhone users are aware of where their smartphones come from, their support for Apple hasn’t diminished.
The underlying issue here is that many companies are outsourcing the production of their goods to places where employees who are underpaid and are forced to work long hours in poor working conditions. Companies are trying to reduce manufacturing costs, even if child labour regulations are violated. Many companies, including Apple, will need to distinguish the fine line between lawful and unlawful business practices to prevent their brand name from being tarnished.
