Samsung postpones Galaxy Fold media events in S'pore and China

This comes after widespread complaints regarding review units of the device breaking after a brief period of use.

Guan Zhen Tan | April 22, 2019, 04:23 PM

Samsung's Galaxy Fold is facing some teething issues as of late.

Tech reviewers, who received review units of the Galaxy Fold found their devices breaking down after a relatively short period of use.

For some, this was due to the removal of the protective screen layer, though others report facing the same issue even without removing it.

According to an official statement from Samsung, removing the protective layer or adding adhesives to the main display may cause damage, as it is part of the display structure designed to protect the screen from unintended scratches.

Media events postponed

Locally, a media event in Singapore introducing the Galaxy Fold has been postponed.

Initially scheduled for April 24, Samsung has since postponed the event, citing "recent feedback on a limited number of Galaxy Fold media review units".

Samsung added that they will also be taking the time to ensure that the Galaxy Fold units will be "in optimum shape" for those who are attending the event.

No date has been given for the postponed media event.

Postponed in China

According to Reuters,  Samsung has also postponed Galaxy Fold media events in China, including those scheduled in Hong Kong and Shanghai.

The Galaxy Fold was scheduled to launch on April 26 in the US.

Sales of the foldable smartphone have been planned for the South Korean and European markets in May, and Chinese sales will begin from an undisclosed date.

Samsung has since issued the following statement with regards to the Galaxy Fold's release:

We recently unveiled a completely new mobile category: a smartphone using multiple new technologies and materials to create a display that is flexible enough to fold. We are encouraged by the excitement around the Galaxy Fold.

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.

To fully evaluate this feedback and run further internal tests, we have decided to delay the release of the Galaxy Fold. We plan to announce the release date in the coming weeks.

Initial findings from the inspection of reported issues on the display showed that they 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.

We will take measures to strengthen the display protection. 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.

We value the trust our customers place in us and they are always our top priority. Samsung is committed to working closely with customers and partners to move the industry forward. We want to thank them for their patience and understanding.

Top photo via Mark Gurman and Samsung