As of this writing, the consular posts are accepting B1/B2 applications, eligible for the dropbox. Regular appointments are available only in Feb / March 2021. If one plans to travel in the near future, it is important to complete the visa application form DS160, pay the visa application fee, schedule the first available appointment and continue to monitor for earlier appointments. As soon as the consular posts resume regular operations, we will see a huge surge in the number of applications and there will be associated delays. Being prepared would help applicants to schedule an early appointment for their visa interview, when available. 

We urge applicants to complete the forms and be ready for the visa interview so that s/he can apply as soon as the consular posts open earlier slots for B applications.