Apple Opens Up Foxconn to Scrutiny, Preps for Changes

ABC's Nightline plans to air "iFactory: Inside Apple" tonight, focusing on the tech giant's controversial Foxconn factory with a rare peek into its working conditions.

"We'll hear how Apple polices itself by ordering the largest independent audits this industry has ever seen", anchorman Bill Weir promises in Nightline's preview clip, highlighting Apple's proactive response to the allegations.

The Nightline broadcast is part of a broader move on Apple's part toward more transparency over its labor issues, a marked change from its previous silence. Foxconn agreed to Nightline's visit at Apple's request, as Apple struggles to address the onslaught of allegations about the factory's treatment of workers with a series of comprehensive independent audits investigating factory conditions.

Apple pledged to change factory conditions according to the audit findings, and allowing media examination underscores its increasingly transparent stance, as well as its willingness to overhaul factory procedures.

The tech giant's support signals a desire to appease activists and critics by fully cooperating and staying proactive in response to the allegations against Foxconn.

Although Foxconn operates independently of Apple, the companies enjoy a close, profitable partnership. Apple's commitment to maintaining an operational base at Foxconn shows the company values the working relationship and intends to play a key role in addressing the issues.

The Fair Labor Association, or FLA, charged with auditing the factories, already uncovered massive problems with the supply chain. Although the factory's physical conditions are sound, the FLA alleges Foxconn violates worker conditions.

FLA chief executive Auret van Heerden backpedaled on his original, positive assessment of factory conditions, hinting at substantial issues with the factory's relationship with its workers. Van Heerden did not offer details, but predicted major changes may be in the works at Apple, since the company promised to thoroughly respond to the audits.

Apple already successfully pushed for a wage increase at the factory, but the FLA's announcement points to more changes ahead.

Apple CEO Tim Cook made an earnest speech in response to the Foxconn controversy, emphasizing Apple's commitment to a fair and safe work environment for all of its employees.

Now Apple is demonstrating the company's willingness to "walk the talk", encouraging increased scrutiny to prove its commitment to making substantial improvements to its supply chain.