Sprint delays S4 launch in stores, cites inventory

Sprint delays Samsung Galaxy S4 launch in retail stores, cites inventory challenges

NEW YORK (AP) -- Sprint is delaying shipments of Samsung's latest flagship phone, citing "unexpected inventory challenges."

The company did not say whether it had encountered supply disruptions or heavier-than-expected demand with the Galaxy S4.

Sprint's launch was scheduled for Saturday. Sprint Nextel Corp. says it still expects to sell the device over the Internet and by phone, but retail stores and other distribution channels won't get them until later. The company didn't say when.

The S4 has a slightly larger screen than its predecessor, the Galaxy S III, but it's lighter and smaller. The S4 sports new camera tools, an optical-reader app and the ability to perform tasks by waving a finger over a sensor.

Sprint charges $250 for the base model, or $150 if the buyer is coming over from another carrier.