LOS ANGELES, April 23 (Xinhua) -- Samsung has postponed the release of its foldable smartphone Galaxy Fold originally scheduled for April 26, after multiple screen breaking and malfunctioning cases were reported by reviewers.
Galaxy Fold, unveiled in February, was slated to go on sale on April 26 in select markets including the United States.
However, ahead of the official launch of the cellphone, American journalists supplied with samples reported screen malfunctions after just a few days of use. Some reviewers removed a protective film atop the screen, which appeared to result in some problems with the display.
In a statement, Samsung said some reviewers showed how the device needs "further improvements" that could ensure the best possible user experience.
"To fully evaluate this feedback and run further internal tests, we have decided to delay the release of the Galaxy Fold. We plan to announce the release date in the coming weeks," said the statement.
The Galaxy Fold resembles a conventional smartphone but opens like a book. The display has been transformed from a pocket-sized 4.6-inch phone into an expansive 7.3-inch dynamic AMOLED screen.
Samsung has defined the Galaxy Fold as the "biggest breakthrough" since the launch of its mobile phone business.
Samsung said initial findings from the inspection of reported issues on the display showed that they could be associated with impact on the top and bottom exposed areas of the hinge.
"There was also an instance where substances found inside the device affected the display performance," said the statement.
According to media reports, Samsung sent emails to users who pre-ordered the device saying that it will update them "with more specific shipping information in two weeks."
Customers will not be charged until their order ships. They can also cancel their order at samsung.com anytime before shipping, according to reports.
