Samsung chose to delay the launch of its highly-anticipated new smartphone, the Galaxy Fold, after early reviewers reported screen failures associated with flaws in hardware design. The Fold, originally expected to launch on April 26, has no current release date.

In a statement on April 23, Samsung said “the device needs further improvements that could ensure the best possible user experience” and decided to delay the phone “to fully evaluate this feedback and run further internal tests.”

Unlike other phones, the Galaxy Fold works as a tablet, but with its innovative screen-folding technology can transform into a phone-sized device. In either configuration, the Fold retains the functionality of both a phone and a tablet. In tablet mode, its 7.3-inch screen gives a wider view, which is especially useful when watching videos or reading, and provides users with high quality viewing experiences and easier multitasking.

“It looks like an incredible phone, but I don’t think it’s for me… though it’s pioneering technology, it’s still really expensive,” sophomore Ali Dada, who currently owns a Samsung Galaxy S9, said.

Would you want to switch to a foldable phone?

• yes
• no

View Results

 Loading ...

Samsung prices the Fold at $1,980, a large sum of money when compared to current smartphone offerings, such as the recently announced budget Google Pixel 3a. When compared to the iPhone X, whose $1,000 price tag was widely rebuked by critics, the Galaxy Fold is twice as expensive.

“This is a super premium device,” director of product, services and commercial strategy at Samsung UK Kate Beaumont said in an interview with the Verge. “We want to make sure it has a concierge-like service and experience.”

In early April, Samsung sent test models of the Fold to top reviewers, celebrities, and technology sites, such as Steve Aoki, Tyler “Ninja” Blevins, Lewis Hilsenteger (from Unbox Therapy) and news sites like Forbes. While initial reactions were enthusiastic, the reviewers noticed issues with durability of the device as well as the screen, which led to Samsung’s delay.

When asked if he would consider purchasing a foldable phone several years in the future, Dada said, “I definitely would; I’m sure by then the prices would’ve dropped and many issues such as the screens breaking would be solved.”