The Trump Organization plans to launch a mobile phone and phone service this September.
Few details were shared about the $499 smartphone and 'Trump Mobile' service, but the company's own website claims that the project is "not designed, developed, manufactured, distributed or sold by The Trump Organization or any of their respective affiliates or principals," suggesting a simple licensing deal.
The new venture is littered with references to the presidency of Donald Trump, who owns the Trump Organization.
Trump was the 45th President, and is currently the 47th. The Trump Mobile service (available on the T1 phone and other phones) costs $47.45 a month in what is known as the '47 Plan' - although that does not include tax, so it's actually $61.97.
An image of the phone uses the date January 20, in an apparent nod to Trump's inauguration day. Said phone image does not appear to be real, with the three lenses on the back of the phone appearing to be the same image copied three times, and the phone lacking flash or any sensors.
The product description is also confusing, with the phone listed as having a "5000mAh long life camera" (that should be battery) and 12GB RAM Storage (that should be memory).
Of the details available, the phone seems mid-tier, but of note is the claim that it will be built in the US - something that would require a significant supply chain investment, if true.
As for the network, Trump Mobile claims that it will offer the “same coverage as the three nationwide phone service carriers." On its terms of use page, TM reveal that the plans are provided by Liberty Mobile Wireless (LMW).
Not to be confused with Liberty Global or the now-defunct Liberty Wireless, LMW is a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) using T-Mobile's network that does not operate its own physical network.
The company pitches itself as a 'freedom' focused operator, and also has a $99 'Independence Phone' that is a more basic flip phone. It is unclear how many customers LMW has, with its FAQ page currently including the placeholder question 'What is Lorem Ipsum?' five times.
“Trump Mobile is going to revolutionize cellphones, mobile calling,” Trump's son Eric told Fox News.
The '47 Plan' mobile service currently costs more than those from rival T-Mobile MVNOs, including Metro, US Mobile, and Mint Mobile (now owned by T-Mobile).
Alongside the mobile business, President Trump has also launched his own meme cryptocurrency, while sons Eric and Donald operate their own data center cryptomining venture, 'American Bitcoin.'
As president, Trump has created a strategic crypto reserve, pardoned crypto-related individuals, and relaxed enforcement of the sector.
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