Awkward truth behind Trump Mobile’s $500 phones as people brand it a ‘scam’

Criticism is growing over Trump Mobile, with many accusing the new phone venture of being overpriced and misleading.

Supporters had long anticipated a gold-colored “T1” smartphone, which the company promoted as a device created for “real Americans.”

Trump Mobile was launched earlier this year by The Trump Organization, now led by Donald Trump’s sons, Don Jr. and Eric.

However, the promised gold phone has not materialized, and the company is reportedly selling refurbished Apple and Samsung models instead—older devices offered at sharply inflated prices.

The Independent reported that at least one phone was listed for $225 more than its price on Amazon. The company had also claimed the devices would be manufactured in the U.S., a claim experts later disputed.

In June, the business announced the T1 would be released in August alongside a $47.45-per-month phone plan, marketed as including U.S.-based customer service. Meanwhile, their website has featured phones like Samsung S23 and S24 models, along with iPhone 15 and 16 options.

A critic went viral after calling the project a scam, noting that even NBC News allegedly placed a $100 deposit and still hasn’t received a device after months of shifting release dates.

NBC stated they made several calls between September and November but received no meaningful updates, and the expected delivery date was repeatedly pushed back. As of December 6, the phone still hadn’t arrived.

UNILAD has contacted Trump Mobile for a response.