Just days after its highly anticipated launch, Donald Trump’s new mobile phone venture is reportedly encountering significant early setbacks. The Trump-branded smartphone, known as the “T1,” is facing questions regarding its manufacturing origins, advertised specifications, and shipping timeline.
Shifting Claims on Manufacturing
The phone’s marketing initially featured prominent language on its official website suggesting the product was “made in America.” However, that specific claim appears to have been quickly removed. Instead, the website now includes less concrete assertions, stating the phone is “designed with American values in mind” and features “American hands behind every device.” Critics point out these phrases are vague and could potentially apply to aspects of design or assembly rather than full domestic manufacturing.
The device itself, as shown in reportedly poorly photoshopped mock-ups on the website, features a matte gold finish with a laser-engraved American flag and the designation “T1” on the back. Its design has been noted for its resemblance to an iPhone, complete with what appear to be copy-pasted cameras.
Specs Change, Shipping Delays Emerge
Beyond the shifting claims about its origins, reports indicate key specifications advertised for the T1 phone have also changed since its initial preview. According to reviews of the site, the advertised screen size has been reduced from 6.78 inches to 6.25 inches. Furthermore, previous listings detailing the phone having 12 gigabytes of RAM have been removed entirely, with no alternative RAM specifications currently provided on the site.
Potential buyers are also facing uncertainty regarding delivery. The website previously promised that the T1 phone would ship in September. However, that specific shipping date has been replaced with the less definite timeframe of being available “later this year.”
These inconsistencies and changes, particularly regarding specifications and production claims, could suggest the company behind the T1 phone has switched suppliers since the product was first previewed or announced.
Another Venture in a Pattern?
The T1 phone is being viewed by critics as the latest in a series of controversial or “money-grabbing” ventures launched by Donald Trump, particularly highlighted during recent election cycles. These include previously rolled out branded sneakers, a limited-edition $60 “God Bless the USA” Bible, taking his social media platform Truth Social public via a SPAC merger, and involvement in cryptocurrency projects. Some of these business endeavors have reportedly drawn criticism even from the former president’s own allies, who have described certain ventures as questionable moves. The early issues and shifting details surrounding the Trump-branded phone align with a broader pattern of business activities that critics characterize as prioritizing branding and quick revenue over established norms or detailed execution.
