Samsung has officially delayed the market release of its Galaxy Fold smartphone in order to address quality concerns with its foldable display. The device was supposed to go on sale April 26, however, reports have noted that Samsung’s carrier partners have also halted pre-order sales amid the decision to postpone the launch.
The Wall Street Journal reported Monday that Samsung has opted to stall availability of the Galaxy Fold after several technology reviewers reported issues with their devices after just one or two days of handling. Complaints included various short-circuiting and bleeding of inner foldable displays, screens malfunctioning after their protective films were removed, debris collecting under the flexible displays, and bubbling and lifting displays at the hinge location.
Overall, the reports of issues with the Galaxy Fold display appear to be in the minority as many other reviewers have done several public tests of their pre-release models with no damage. There is currently no word on whether those reviewers have been asked to return their devices. Some journalists that came forward with issues have already received replacement models.
Samsung has stated it plans to continue with its rollout of the Galaxy Fold “in the coming weeks,” but has not shared a specific timeline of when sales can be expected to begin. The manufacturer has also canceled several launch events that were scheduled for April 23 and 24 in China, Spain, and Singapore.
While opinions on the Galaxy Fold’s postponement have been mixed, the move is likely to Samsung’s benefit. Issues with the Galaxy Fold don’t appear to pose any kind of safety risk, but working toward a smoother rollout is to the benefit of the manufacturer and its customers. Samsung has said it plans to reinforce the protective film on devices’ displays as well as ensure that its packaging has adequate warnings and instructions on how to handle the foldable screen.
Those who have preordered the device won’t be charged until it ships, and consumers also have the option to cancel their orders, according to Android Central.
Once available, the Samsung Galaxy Fold will sell for $1980 at AT&T, T-Mobile, Best Buy, and Samsung Experience Stores. Prior to news of the Galaxy Fold’s market delay, reports indicated that several vendors had already sold out of preorders for the device.
Samsung’s official statement
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.
