The protests, organized by Apples Against Apartheid, spanned 10 countries and primarily involved retail employees of Apple.

September 20 was marked as 'Apple Accountability Day', an international day of protest against Apple Inc.

Activists are urging the public to boycott not only the iPhone 16 but also services like iCloud+ and Apple Music as a form of protest.

They demand that Apple cease sourcing cobalt from the Congo due to dangerous mining conditions and human rights violations.

On the launch day of the iPhone 16, demonstrations occurred at Apple Stores worldwide, with participation from current and former employees.

Protests took place in over a dozen cities, including major locations like Brussels, Paris, London, Berlin, New York, and Tokyo.

Protesters are calling for a boycott of Apple products during the iPhone 16 launch, encouraging consumers to consider the ethical implications of their purchases.

Protesters accuse Apple of ignoring violence and exploitation in the Democratic Republic of Congo, where militia groups are reportedly enslaving people for mining coltan.

Criticism has also been directed at Apple for its silence on the Gaza conflict, with employees urging the company to take a stand.

While Apple CEO Tim Cook expressed sympathy for victims of the Gaza conflict in October 2023, he has not made further comments on the issue.

This movement reflects a growing trend among tech workers, including those from other companies like Google, who are protesting their employers' actions regarding the Gaza conflict.

The protests highlight accusations of Apple's complicity in humanitarian crises in both the Democratic Republic of Congo and Gaza.