Tariffs explained: What they are and how they affect smartphones

There are still plenty of unknowns about how tariffs will affect you, but one thing is certain: it is not going to be good.

Apr 3, 2025 - 19:09

Tariffs explained: What they are and how they affect smartphones

Credit: Ryan Haines / Android Authority

While on the campaign trail in 2024, Donald Trump repeatedly mentioned his plans to institute tariffs on non-US goods should he win the presidency. Now that he’s back in the White House, he has started fulfilling his tariff promises today. These tariffs will have a dramatic effect on the cost of goods within the US that are wholly or even partially sourced from other countries.

One industry that will see changes due to Trump’s tariffs is smartphones. Being that Android Authority is heavily focused on phones, I’m here to help break down what tariffs are supposed to do, why Trump is increasing them, and what this might mean for you, the smartphone consumer.