Donald Trump Jr. and Eric Trump have unveiled the T1 smartphone under the Trump Organization. Marketed as a “Made in America” device, the T1 is priced at $499 and is set to launch in September. The announcement was made on June 16, 2025, at Trump Tower in New York City, marking the organization’s foray into the competitive telecommunications sector.
The T1 Smartphone: Features and Pricing
The T1 is a gold-colored Android smartphone boasting a 6.8-inch 120Hz OLED display, a substantial battery, and a design reminiscent of high-end devices. It operates on Google’s Android system and is part of a broader push by President Donald Trump to promote domestic manufacturing . The device is being marketed alongside T1 Mobile, a mobile virtual network operator offering a plan dubbed “The 47 Plan,” priced at $47.45 per month. This pricing is a nod to Donald Trump’s roles as the 45th and (potentially) 47th U.S. President.
Skepticism Surrounding ‘Made in America’ Claims
Despite the patriotic branding, industry analysts have expressed skepticism about the T1’s manufacturing origins. Experts suggest that the phone is likely a white-label device produced by a Chinese Original Design Manufacturer (ODM), such as DOOGEE, Ulefone, or Blu, rather than being entirely manufactured in the U.S. The Verge highlighted similarities between the T1 and models like the DOOGEE Note 58 and Ulefone Note 18 Ultra, raising questions about the authenticity of the “Made in America” claim.
Further skepticism arises from the challenges of manufacturing smartphones in the U.S. Analysts point out that the U.S. lacks the necessary infrastructure, skilled labor, and component supply chains to produce smartphones domestically at scale. For instance, the cost of assembling an iPhone in the U.S. is estimated to be significantly higher than in China, potentially leading to a substantial increase in retail prices.
The Trump Organization’s Expanding Tech Ambitions
The launch of the T1 smartphone is part of a broader strategy by the Trump Organization to diversify into technology and digital assets. In addition to the T1 Mobile service, Trump Media is exploring the creation of a Bitcoin and Ether ETF, aiming to allocate 75% to Bitcoin and 25% to Ether, as part of a $2.5 billion investment in digital assets.
Conclusion
While the T1 smartphone’s “Made in America” label aims to resonate with patriotic consumers, industry experts remain doubtful about the authenticity of these claims. The Trump Organization’s entry into the tech market reflects a broader trend of diversification, but whether the T1 can compete with established smartphone brands remains to be seen. Consumers and analysts alike will be watching closely as the device’s September launch approaches.