Why Samsung Had to Delay the Galaxy Foldable Phone
The device has huge potential. But after about a week with two units, it’s clear the technology just isn’t ready
Samsung Electronics Co. on Monday delayed the Galaxy Fold, a $1,980 device that unfolds from a smartphone into a small tablet. After one review unit loaned to Bloomberg News stopped working two days into a test, and a replacement revealed other limitations, it's clear why the Korean technology giant is delaying the launch.
Problems with the Fold screen would be a dealbreaker all on their own. But the issues go deeper. As a phone, it’s not good enough. As a tablet, there are also too many drawbacks. As a combined device that can morph between the two, the Galaxy Fold is an intriguing sneak peek at what might be possible in the future of mobile computing -- but probably not for years.