Samsung has confirmed reports which claimed, it is postponing the release of its $2,000 (203,080 Kenyan Shillings) Galaxy Fold foldable phone just days before it was originally scheduled to go on sale.
While The Wall Street Journal reports that the Galaxy Fold will not be available until sometime in May 2019 at the earliest, Samsung however, is giving itself plenty of time with its non-committal timeframe. In an email to customers who have already preordered the Fold, the company said they can expect a revised update on shipping details in two weeks (which would be May 6th 2019). United States carriers; AT&T and T-Mobile, are also slated to carry the premium device.
The Galaxy Fold’s durability, first came into scrutiny after several of the review units failed in quick succession, as a result of issues with their displays.
A couple of units broke after the “protective layer” was taken off the screen while others, (like The Verge’s review unit), failed after just a day or two of normal use. CNBC also reported that its review device, also failed for no obvious reason.
Samsung said on Monday April 22nd 2019 that “Initial findings from the inspection of reported issues on the display showed that they could be associated with impact on the top and bottom exposed areas of the hinge. There was also an instance where substances found inside the device affected the display performance,”.
The company added that it “will take measures to strengthen the display protection,”.
Samsung also told consumers that “Your preorder guarantees your place in the queue for this innovative technology,”.
Although the news is very disappointing for consumers who already placed orders for Samsung’s ‘futuristic’ (yes I highlighted that because let’s face it; foldable phones are not exactly a ground breaking or new phenomenon.) device, this delay is certainly the right move. This is because, shipping a product that is from all indications just not ready, would have done damage not just to Samsung’s reputation, but also to this entire emerging category of mobile devices with folding screens l, as it would have cast a huge shadow of doubt.
That is if the already super high starting cost was not already enough to dissuade would be users.
Below, is Samsung’s entire statement on the Galaxy Fold delay:
“We recently unveiled a completely new mobile category: a smartphone using multiple new technologies and materials to create a display that is flexible enough to fold. We are encouraged by the excitement around the Galaxy Fold.
While many reviewers shared with us the vast potential they see, some also showed us how the device needs further improvements that could ensure the best possible user experience.
To fully evaluate this feedback and run further internal tests, we have decided to delay the release of the Galaxy Fold. We plan to announce the release date in the coming weeks.
Initial findings from the inspection of reported issues on the display showed that they could be associated with impact on the top and bottom exposed areas of the hinge. There was also an instance where substances found inside the device affected the display performance.
We will take measures to strengthen the display protection. We will also enhance the guidance on care and use of the display including the protective layer so that our customers get the most out of their Galaxy Fold.
We value the trust our customers place in us and they are always our top priority. Samsung is committed to working closely with customers and partners to move the industry forward. We want to thank them for their patience and understanding.”
