It looks like the CDMA version of the Nextbit Robin was simply not meant to be. After months of delays and false starts on the device, the folks at Nextbit had to admit defeat in bringing the Verizon and Sprint version of the phone to market. Apparently it became too cost prohibitive to build.
CEO Tom Moss explained that an expectation of “weeks” became “months,” and “hundreds of thousands of dollars” became “millions.” Moss shared, "We were not sufficiently doubtful of what we were told given everything we already knew from our experience at previous companies. We were too optimistic, too bullish, and, as a result, we have to deal with our biggest fear, disappointing you, our supporters. This is bad for you, and this is bad for us.”
In the end, it probably makes sense for the small startup to focus on a GSM radio international market. They are more likely to hit larger numbers of sales that way. Perhaps if this first device turns into a success they can afford to do more in their next generation devices down the line.
Here's our dedicated section for the Nextbit Robin: Nextbit Robin
Source: Re/Code