After reports of delays and review sample recalls and no confirmed revised global launch date, Samsung South Africa on Tuesday revealed that it plans to launch the Galaxy Fold in the country by the middle of May.
Speaking at what was supposed to be a joint Galaxy Fold and 8K QLED TV launch in Johannesburg on Tuesday, Samsung South Africa CEO and president Sung Yoon explained that the foldable smartphone will now be officially unveiled at its own event.
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“Some of the media friends have already asked about the Galaxy Fold, but as we shared last night — the official PR — the Galaxy Fold launch will be later in South Africa,” Yoon clarified.
He noted that the US market launch will be “a little delayed” but suggested that the local launch has not deviated from its original date.
“We did not change in South Africa. We plan to launch the Galaxy Fold in mid-May,” he added.
The device was on display at Tuesday’s event, but attendees were barred from taking pictures or handling it.
While it’s not clear when Samsung will launch its Galaxy Fold globally, we may not have to wait too much longer in South Africa.
Update, 10am, 24 April: Following Tuesday’s QLED 8K EV event, and the above remarks from Mr. Yoon, Samsung South Africa has clarified its Galaxy Fold release plans to Memeburn, noting that the company expects to hold a media event in May, rather than launch the product itself.
Read the full statement below.
“Samsung wishes to clarify remarks relating to the availability of Galaxy Fold in South Africa. Please be advised that Samsung South Africa is expecting that the media and product demonstration event for the Galaxy Fold will be set in the latter part of May. Whereupon the official date of commercial availability will be announced. We wish to thank our media partners and loyal customers who have shown such positive sentiment towards this innovative and new category of smartphone.”
Editor’s note: clarified the nature of the Galaxy Fold’s “recalls”, specifically the sample units handed to reviewers.
Feature image: The initial unveiling of the Samsung Galaxy Fold in February at the 2019 Unpacked event, via Samsung
