Experts are skeptical that a smartphone can be built in the US based on the specifications, price and timeline laid out by Donald Trump, Jr., and Eric Trump when they announced the phone.

Along with the service, Trump Mobile is rolling out the $499 T1 Phone in August, a “gold smartphone engineered for performance and proudly designed and built in the United States for customers who expect the best from their mobile carrier.”

Unveiled with a price tag of $499 (£366.65), Trump T1 Phone immediately prompts a crucial question: Is this device truly poised to challenge established giants like the upcoming iPhone 17, or does its arrival serve a different purpose, perhaps more rooted in political strategy than technological ambition?

Lately, there have been murmurs about the Trump Organization wanting to enter the mobile phone market. Recently spotted trademarks suggested the organization was looking to launch both a phone and a mobile service. Those murmurs have now turned into a full-blown announcement as the group unveiled its new mobile venture.

On Monday, the Trump Organization — currently run by the president’s children while he serves in office — announced the launch of Trump Mobile.