The general environment for Apple Inc. is highly complex and dynamic, as outlined in Hitt, Ireland, & Hoskisson $($CH$\mathrm{.}2).$ The company operates in a global market and faces various challenges and opportunities. Here's a scanning of the general environment for Apple Inc. using the dimensions of demographic, economic, political$/$legal$,$ sociocultural, technological, global, and sustainable$/$physical$,$ and two key factors that can help inform Apple's strategic planning:

Demographic Dimension: a$.$ Age distribution: The increasing adoption of Apple products by older generations can create a more stable customer base and market growth. $($Citation: Pew Research Center, $2020).$ b$.$ Income distribution: The growing middle class in emerging markets presents a significant market opportunity for Apple, as consumers seek higher$-$quality products. $($Citation: World Bank, $2021).$

Economic Dimension: a$.$ Economic growth: The global economic growth and prosperity impact consumers' purchasing power and demand for Apple products. $($Citation: International Monetary Fund, $2021).$ b$.$ Exchange rates: Fluctuations in exchange rates can impact Apple's profitability and pricing strategies. $($Citation: Du$,$ Y$.,$ & Wang, X$.,2020).$

Political$/$Legal Dimension: a$.$ Intellectual property protection: Apple faces challenges in protecting its intellectual property and patents in various markets. $($Citation: U$.$S$.$ Chamber of Commerce, $2020).$ b$.$ Regulatory environment: Changes in trade policies, data privacy regulations, and tax laws can impact Apple's operations and market access. $($Citation: OECD, $2021).$

Sociocultural Dimension: a$.$ Changing consumer preferences: Shifting trends towards sustainability and social responsibility can create opportunities for Apple to develop environmentally friendly products. $($Citation: McKinsey & Company, $2020).$ b$.$ Cultural influences: Local customs and preferences in different markets can impact Apple's product design and marketing strategies. $($Citation: Harvard Business Review, $2021).$

Technological Dimension: a$.$ Technological advancements: Rapid technological innovations create opportunities for Apple to develop new products and services, but also pose challenges in maintaining its competitive edge. $($Citation: MIT Technology Review, $2020).$ b$.$ Internet connectivity: Increasing internet penetration and connectivity globally can expand Apple's market reach and create new opportunities for its services. $($Citation: International Telecommunications Union, $2021).$

Global Dimension: a$.$ Globalization of markets: Apple's expansion into emerging markets and global supply chain management expose the company to different regulatory, cultural, and economic challenges. $($Citation: World Economic Forum, $2020).$ b$.$ International trade disputes: Geopolitical tensions and trade disputes can impact Apple's supply chain, pricing, and market access. $($Citation: The Economist, $2021).$

Sustainable$/$Physical Dimension: a$.$ Environmental concerns: Increasing consumer and regulatory focus on sustainability can pose challenges and opportunities for Apple to develop environmentally friendly products. $($Citation: The Guardian, $2020).$ b$.$ Supply chain management: Apple's supply chain management, including sourcing materials, labor practices, and waste management, can impact its reputation and sustainability goals. $($Citation: Greenbiz, $2021).$ Final answer: In conclusion, Apple Inc. operates in a complex and dynamic general environment, facing various challenges and opportunities across demographic, economic, political$/$legal$,$ sociocultural, technological, global, and sustainable$/$physical dimensions. Factors such as age distribution, economic growth, political$/$legal environment, sociocultural influences, technological advancements, globalization, sustainability, and supply chain management can inform Apple's strategic planning. By staying abreast of these factors and adapting its strategies accordingly, Apple can continue to thrive and remain a leader in the global technology industry. cite all the references in the article