Samsung puts off U.S. release of foldable phone to respect evaluation feedback

By Lim Chang-won Posted : April 23, 2019, 12:02 Updated : April 23, 2019, 12:02

[AP/Yonhap News Photo]


SEOUL -- To respect the evaluation feedback from early reviewers, Samsung Electronics put off the scheduled shipment of its foldable smartphone, Galaxy Fold, this week in the United States due to problems found with the folding screen and related mechanism.

There have been negative comments from some early reviewers, including journalists, mainly in the United States, who claimed that the expensive new device broke after just a few days of use. Samsung has retrieved broken devices to see if there were any mechanical or design faults.

"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," Samsung said in a statement, adding the release of Galaxy Fold for American consumers would be put off from April 26.

"To fully evaluate this feedback and run further internal tests, we have decided to delay the release of the Galaxy Fold," Samsung said, adding a new release date would be disclosed after the world's last smartphone maker took measures to strengthen the protection of displays.

Initially, Samsung blamed user error for causing malfunctions, insisting some early reviewers might have mistaken the top layer on the surface of Galaxy Fold as a protective film and removed it. The top layer was part of the display structure designed to protect the screen from scratches, the company said, promising to provide clear warnings to customers.

Now, Samsung found through its inspection that problems 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."

Galaxy Fold features a 7.3-inch display, which folds into a compact device with a separate 4.6-inch cover display. It uses an active matrix organic light emitting diodes (AMOLED) display. Two main bodies are connected by a specially designed hinge that opens and closes smoothly like a book. Sophisticated interlocking gears are hidden in the casing of the hinge for a seamless look.

"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," Samsung said.
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