The T1 smartphone, a device announced by Trump Mobile in mid-June of the previous year, remains unreleased following multiple revisions to its design, specifications, and manufacturing claims. Initially targeted for an August or September release, the company has adjusted its timeline and is now displaying pre-production units while awaiting final certifications.
Initial Announcement and Pricing
Trump Mobile launched its wireless service in June of the previous year, with the T1 smartphone intended as a flagship product. The device was initially announced with a price of $499 for customers placing a $100 deposit. Subsequent purchases were projected to be up to $999. Early specifications were noted by observers as aligning with entry-level devices.
Evolving Manufacturing and Design Claims
Initial marketing for the T1 stated it would be "proudly designed and built in the United States." This claim later shifted to "proudly American," then "American-proud" design, without further elaboration on the manufacturing location.
More recently, the company's website has described the T1 as undergoing "final assembly" in Miami, with "American hands behind every device."
Industry analysts, including Francisco Jeronimo from International Data Corp. (IDC), have suggested that changes in manufacturing claims may reflect challenges in establishing a U.S. smartphone supply chain capable of producing devices below $1,000.
The device's design has also undergone multiple revisions. An initial prototype displayed a gold model with an appearance similar to premium smartphones like certain Apple iPhone or Samsung Galaxy models. A more recent pre-production unit features a curved back, a glossy gold finish, and an American flag motif. The camera array has shifted from an iPhone-like appearance to a vertical stack comprising three cameras. A large "T1" logo visible in renders is scheduled for removal from the final product.
Revised Release Timeline and Company Response
The release timeline for the T1 has been adjusted several times. While customers who paid a $100 deposit were initially informed that the device would ship by the end of 2025, the Trump Mobile website currently lists the target release date as "later this year."
The Trump Organization has not responded to inquiries regarding the delays or a revised shipping schedule.
A Trump Mobile customer service representative reportedly informed the Financial Times that the phone is now expected to ship in late January, attributing the delay to a 43-day federal government shutdown that occurred last year.
Current Specifications of Pre-Production Unit
Executives from Trump Mobile have displayed a pre-production unit, detailing hardware. The device is expected to include:
- Display: A "waterfall" screen with aggressive side curves and a small notch, anticipated to be approximately 6.78 inches.
- Cameras: A vertical three-camera housing on the rear. Both the primary rear camera and the front-facing camera are specified to utilize 50MP sensors. The remaining rear lenses are described as ultrawide and telephoto.
- Processor: A Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 series processor.
- Battery: A 5,000mAh battery.
- Storage: 512GB of onboard storage, with support for microSD expansion up to 1TB, which is noted as an uncommon feature in the U.S. smartphone market.
Regulatory Status and Future Plans
Trump Mobile has confirmed that the T1 device has received Federal Communications Commission (FCC) clearance. Carrier certification is reportedly in progress, a necessary step for full U.S. network functionality.
The company also indicated that updated images and full specifications are expected to be published on its website. A higher-end model, the T1 Ultra, remains on the development roadmap, with specific details such as the exact Snapdragon model, display refresh rate, charging wattage, IP rating, and 5G band support pending release.
Current Operations and Analyst Commentary
While the T1 smartphone remains unreleased, Trump Mobile currently offers its wireless service for $47.45 per month. The company also sells refurbished older iPhone and Samsung Galaxy models, priced between $370 and $630, as alternatives for customers seeking immediate device access.
IDC analyst Francisco Jeronimo has expressed skepticism regarding the T1's launch, noting the complexities of smartphone manufacturing. Jeronimo has also speculated that Trump Mobile might be re-evaluating its strategy, potentially favoring the sale of refurbished devices.