A smartphone project linked to the family of Donald Trump is facing mounting scrutiny after reports claimed that nearly 600,000 customers paid deposits for a “gold” smartphone that has yet to be delivered more than a year later.
The device, known as the “T1” smartphone, was launched in June 2025 by Trump’s sons, Eric Trump and Donald Trump Jr, as part of a heavily marketed “patriotic” technology venture under the Trump Mobile brand.
According to international media reports, consumers collectively paid around US$59 million in pre-order deposits, equivalent to approximately S$79.7 million.
Customers were reportedly required to place a US$100 deposit, or about S$135, to secure the smartphone, which was marketed as an American-made alternative to devices from companies such as Apple and Samsung.
The smartphone itself carried a retail price of US$499, roughly S$675.
Promises Of “Made In USA” Smartphone Never Materialised
The T1 smartphone was promoted as a gold-coloured Android device featuring an American flag design and branding centred around nationalism and domestic manufacturing.
Trump Mobile also launched a monthly mobile subscription package priced at US$47.45, referencing Donald Trump’s status as the 45th and 47th US president.
The company claimed subscribers would receive nationwide 5G coverage, roadside assistance, telemedicine services and unlimited international text messaging across more than 100 countries.
However, despite the extensive marketing campaign, reports indicated that no customers have actually received the smartphone.
Initial promises suggested the phone would ship by late summer 2025, but delivery dates were repeatedly delayed. Deadlines reportedly shifted from November to December before being postponed again to March 2026.
By April 2026, references to shipping timelines had reportedly disappeared entirely from the company’s website.
Media Investigations Raise Questions Over Project
Several media organisations in the United States reportedly investigated the situation after repeated complaints from customers.
According to reports, journalists who placed deposits for the phone claimed they received little or no meaningful updates regarding production progress or shipping details.
Some customers allegedly stated that the company never even collected shipping addresses after payment was made.
Others reportedly described customer service responses as vague and inconsistent, with explanations ranging from production delays to unrelated political events.
Technology journalists investigating the project reportedly called it one of the worst consumer electronics purchasing experiences they had encountered.
The controversy has since triggered online speculation about whether the smartphone project ever reached genuine production stages.
Critics Question Legitimacy Of Venture
The reports have fuelled criticism online, with some observers accusing the project of functioning more like a large-scale pre-order cash collection exercise than a legitimate technology launch.
Trump Mobile has not publicly confirmed whether mass production of the T1 smartphone is currently underway.
The controversy also highlights growing concerns surrounding celebrity-branded technology products, especially projects relying heavily on political branding and advance consumer deposits.
Despite the backlash, supporters of the Trump brand continue to defend the project online, arguing that delays in manufacturing and supply chains are common within the electronics industry.
As of now, there remains no confirmed public release date for the T1 smartphone.