Sources are reporting that Apple has announced late hours for its retail stores during the Christmas holiday season for those who can't make up their minds on the gifts just yet.

A MacDailyNews piece says that “The company's retail stores are staying open late to accommodate last-minute shoppers.” According to the report, “Many stores are staying open until 11pm local time, today and tomorrow, and until 6pm on Christmas Eve.” The publication goes to post a message from Apple's retail website, which, as far as we could tell, makes no mentioning of store hours or any special Christmas-season-treatment:

This holiday, and every day, you can find some of the world’s most knowledgeable Apple people in your neighborhood Apple Store. Our Specialists help you get to know our products and find the perfect gifts for everyone on your list. Geniuses provide hands-on technical.

Nevertheless, it's good to know that Apple's retail stores offer the same great service on holidays as well. At the Apple Store, visitors can experience the complete line of Macintosh computers, but also an array of digital cameras, camcorders, in case you need something to capture this Christmas with.

As Apple itself says, “The Apple Store is a place to ask questions and get answers.” So, if you are considering a Mac, iPod, or iPhone as a Christmas present for someone, you can visit the store first and chat with the staffers. This way you can make an idea of what product is most suitable for what person.

Apple has also posted a Shipping Info note on its Online Store, advising customers to place orders ahead of time. Using the schedule, they are able to estimate exactly how much time they have to place an order and get the products(s) before December 25 / Christmas. The company has also provided a list of all its selling items in stock with due dates - as in, customers can place their order the latest.

Local Apple Store's special holiday hours can be found here. Pre-Christmas Shipping Info is available here.