Poplar Group, the public relations firm representing Trump Mobile since June 2025, has announced it is no longer assisting the company. Chris Walker, founding partner of Poplar Group, confirmed to The Verge that his team “is not assisting Trump Mobile any further.” The decision comes amid ongoing confusion over the release of the T1 Phone, which was launched but remains largely unavailable to consumers.
Background of the T1 Phone and Poplar Group’s Role
Poplar Group began representing Trump Mobile in June 2025, when Walker issued a statement to USA Today claiming that “T1 phones are proudly being made in America.” This claim has since been acknowledged as false by Trump Mobile itself. Walker had previously offered to expedite delivery of two T1 Phones preordered by The Verge, but those orders remain unfulfilled.
Uncertainty Over New PR Representation
Walker stated he does not know whether Trump Mobile has retained a new PR firm. The company’s communication with the media has been minimal, and the end of its relationship with Poplar Group may signal a further withdrawal from press engagement. With the phone now supposedly launched, Trump Mobile may believe it no longer needs to manage media relations.
Limited Evidence of a Genuine Launch
The extent of the T1 Phone launch remains unclear. A handful of media outlets have received review units, and a few individuals on Truth Social and X appear to be genuine buyers. However, no widespread availability has been reported, and preordered devices have not been delivered to many customers. The Verge continues to await its two preordered units.
Ongoing Reporting and Call for Tips
The Verge has been tracking the Trump phone saga since its announcement and recently published a comprehensive wrap-up marking the device’s first birthday. The publication encourages anyone with inside information on Trump Mobile or the T1 Phone to contact them securely via tips@theverge.com or through their How to Tip Us page.
