Once again, Samsung cancels Galaxy Fold pre-orders ahead of re-launch
What's the story
After announcing its plans to re-launch the foldable phone, Samsung has canceled all the Galaxy Fold's pre-orders in the US. The tech giant has informed the customers that it would be dropping all the pre-orders as it needs "time to rethink the customer experience" surrounding the sale of the phone. Meanwhile, as some consolation, Samsung is offering customers a $250 store credit.
Official word
What exactly did Samsung say
According to an email sent by Samsung and made public by YouTuber M Brandon Lee, the company is canceling all the pre-orders as it wants to ensure "the best possible experience with this revolutionary new technology." Samsung added that it has decided to "reinvent the customer experience" and is rethinking the entire process, including purchasing, unboxing, and post-purchase service. What does it mean, though?
Twitter Post
Here is the email from Samsung
So Samsung canceled my pre-order for the Samsung Galaxy Fold...at least they gave me a $250 credit for anything on their store. That is admittantly quite generous.
— M. Brandon Lee | THIS IS TECH TODAY (@thisistechtoday) September 5, 2019
I guess I should rejoin the pre-order queue. pic.twitter.com/Nv7OAIMxnN
Information
Samsung to introduce new Galaxy Fold Premier Service
Apparently, in a bid to revamp the customer experience, Samsung will also offer an exclusive 'Galaxy Fold Premier Service' which allows buyers direct access to Samsung's experts. However, the company has not shared any details about the service as of now.
Apology, in cash!
Customers whose pre-orders are canceled receive $250 as consolation prize
"As a token of appreciation" Samsung decided to offer a $250 store credit to all users whose pre-orders have been canceled. According to the company, this amount can be redeemed on any product at Samsung.com. But, if you're interested in buying Fold, you can get in the reservation line and redeem this amount when pre-orders for the foldable phone would go live again.
Launch roadmap
Galaxy Fold to launch in the US on September 27
To note, Samsung has also announced the launch dates for its Galaxy Fold. In South Korea, the flagship handset goes on sale starting today i.e September 6. In the UK, Singapore, Germany, and France, the Fold hits the shelves on September 18. Finally, in the US, the phone will arrive "in the coming weeks" but the rumored date is September 27.
Launch to re-launch
Recalling Galaxy Fold's not-so-pleasant journey
The foldable phone has become a major embarrassment for the company. It was set to release in April'19. However, its launch was suspended after reviewers reported display breaking issues. Soon, the company decided to automatically cancel the pre-orders. Finally, in July, Samsung announced that it had fixed all the issues on the Fold and that it would be re-launched in September. And, now this!
An overview
Meanwhile, here's a look at the specs of Fold
Notably, the Fold features two displays: a 4.58-inch HD+ (1960x840 pixels) external screen with 21:9 aspect ratio, and a foldable 7.3-inch QHD+ (2152x1536 pixels) Infinity Flex internal display which offers a tablet-like experience. It features a hinge system that uses "multiple interlocking gears" to create a fold that is largely concealed. Moreover, the Fold gets a plastic outer casing and a side-mounted fingerprint scanner.