Fairphone Launches Repairable Smartphone in US Market
The Dutch company Fairphone is now selling its modular, sustainable smartphone, the Fairphone (Gen 6+), in the United States. The device boasts a 10/10 repairability score and a 5-year warranty.
The Netherlands-based company Fairphone has officially launched its sustainably built and highly repairable smartphone, the Fairphone (Gen 6+), in the United States. Available for purchase on Amazon and Fairphone.com starting at $650, the device marks a significant expansion for the company into the American market. Each phone comes with a screwdriver, enabling users to easily replace its 12 modular components, a stark contrast to the industry standard of costly, manufacturer-dependent repairs.
Fairphone devices are renowned for their longevity and ethical sourcing. The Fairphone (Gen 6+) offers a 10/10 repairability score from iFixit, an unmatched 5-year warranty, and promises software updates through 2033. This new model features a Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 4 processor and 12 GB of RAM, a modest upgrade from its predecessor. It is now available in Cobalt Blue, a color choice intended to highlight the company's commitment to improving working conditions in cobalt mines in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Sustainability and Ethical Sourcing at Core
Beyond its repairability, Fairphone emphasizes sustainable and ethical component sourcing. The Fairphone (Gen 6+) incorporates over 50 percent fair-trade or recycled materials. The company also champions living wages for factory workers and utilizes renewable energy in its assembly processes, ensuring its devices are 100 percent e-waste neutral. These practices have earned Fairphone certifications as a B Corp and a platinum rating from EcoVadis, validating its environmental and labor claims.
Raymond van Eck, CEO of Fairphone, views the product as a compelling alternative for American consumers fatigued by planned obsolescence and expensive upgrade cycles. "Americans are exhausted by planned obsolescence, closed-box ecosystems, and expensive yearly upgrades," van Eck stated. He noted the highly concentrated US smartphone market, dominated by Apple and Samsung, presents challenges, especially for brands not sold through major carriers, which influence a significant portion of smartphone sales.
To address this, Fairphone is actively pursuing partnerships with major carriers and mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs) to make its devices more accessible. While the Fairphone (Gen 6+) runs on Google's Android, a version powered by Murena's de-Googled /e/OS is also available for $699. The phone includes a unique feature allowing users to enable "Fairphone Moments," a minimalist interface designed to minimize digital distractions via a physical switch.
Fairphone has experienced substantial growth, with phone shipments increasing by 74 percent in the first half of 2026 compared to the previous year. Van Eck attributes this success to a strategic shift towards highlighting product quality alongside the company's ethical mission, attracting a more mainstream audience. The company plans to maintain its cadence of launching new phone generations every two years, differentiating itself from competitors with frequent annual releases.