Earlier this week, the Trump Organisation made headlines with the announcement of its very own mobile phone service, Trump Mobile, along with the unveiling of its first handset, the T1.
The T1 handset, showcased to the world, has garnered mixed reactions. Some see it as a luxurious bar of gold bullion, while others view it as a subpar rendition of a yellowish phone. With its unique design featuring an uneven bezel and camera lenses placed unusually far apart, the T1 certainly stands out.
One of the key selling points of the T1 was its claim of being proudly made in the USA. However, this assertion was later revised on the website to a more ambiguous statement of being "brought to life right here in the USA." Leaker Max Weinbach speculates that the T1 may be based on the Wingtech Revvl 7 Pro and could potentially be manufactured in one of three Chinese cities.
Despite the patriotic branding, it’s worth noting that the only phone currently entirely made in America is the Liberty Phone from Purism, priced at around $2,000. Given this information, it seems unlikely that the T1 follows a similar manufacturing process for its mid-range price.
For those looking to replicate the Trump T1 experience at a lower cost, here’s a DIY guide:
- A Budget Handset: While the T1 boasts specs like a 6.8-inch AMOLED screen, 120Hz refresh rate, 50MP main camera, 5000mAh battery, and 256GB internal storage, similar or better features can be found in cheaper handsets. Consider options like the Samsung Galaxy A35, priced at $399.99, which offers a comparable user experience and specifications.
- A Picture of a Flag: While it’s unclear if the T1 will display the time twice on the home screen or feature patriotic wallpapers, capturing a blurry photo of a flag can help replicate this aspect of the phone.
- A Gold Phone Case: To complete the Trump aesthetic, invest in a gold phone case like the one offered by Temu for £2.55. For an authentic touch, consider using gold spray paint on a regular phone case for a luxurious look.
In conclusion, a DIY Trump phone kit should not cost more than £205/$275. Opting for a mid-range handset like the Samsung Galaxy A35, the total cost should be around £350/$410, even with the addition of gold spray paint. For those seeking alternative options, exploring the best budget and mid-range phones on the market may provide a more practical choice.
