• Launch of Trump’s Gold Smartphone Delayed by Recent Government Shutdown
• Phone Positioned as American Rival to Apple and Samsung Devices

Trump Mobile, the company owned by President Donald Trump’s family, has postponed the release of its $499 gold-colored smartphone, originally scheduled for the end of this year.

The Trump Organization licensed its name to the phone and mobile service in June as part of a series of family business ventures now managed by Trump’s sons, capitalizing on his popularity.

The company announced a “strong possibility” that the handset would not be delivered this month, citing disruptions in shipments caused by the recent government shutdown, according to media reports.

The T1 smartphone, described as “proudly American,” was marketed as a competitor to Apple and Samsung devices and is adorned with the U.S. flag, while the company’s website still notes the release is planned for “later this year.”

Pre-orders require a $100 deposit.

The announcement came shortly after Trump criticized Apple for moving production of U.S.-bound iPhones from China to India.

The company also offers a monthly phone plan at $47.45, referencing Trump as the 47th president, and recently started selling used Apple and Samsung phones at lower prices than the market.

The project is run by Trump’s sons, Donald Jr. and Eric, who took over the family business after their father returned to the presidency.

This service is part of a broader line of Trump-branded products, including watches and footwear, with plans to expand into other areas.

The family’s entry into the smartphone sector raises questions about potential conflicts of interest, as the business operates in a highly regulated federal industry overseen by agencies previously under Trump’s executive authority.