The Fairphone Gen 6 Plus has been officially released, making it the first model from the company to be directly available to consumers in the United States. This marks a notable change in strategy for Fairphone, which has historically focused on creating ethically manufactured and easily repairable devices. While previous Fairphone models were accessible in the US through partnerships with companies like Murena, which offered a Google-free Android variant known as /e/OS, the Gen 6 Plus now arrives with the standard Google-equipped operating system. It also includes an in-house gallery application for the first time, signaling a more conventional user experience.
This latest smartphone maintains Fairphone's commitment to durability and user-driven maintenance, featuring a design that allows for the replacement of up to 12 different components using a single screwdriver. Key parts such as the battery, USB-C port, display, and camera modules are all user-replaceable, with component costs ranging from affordable items like the SIM tray to more significant parts like the screen. In addition to its repair-friendly build, the Fairphone Gen 6 Plus distinguishes itself with an extended software support policy, promising updates until 2033 and at least six Android OS upgrades, ensuring long-term usability for its owners.
Beyond its ethical and repairable aspects, the Fairphone Gen 6 Plus introduces several hardware enhancements. It is powered by a Snapdragon 7s Gen 4 chipset and comes equipped with 12GB of RAM, an upgrade from its predecessor's Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 chip and 8GB of RAM. Other specifications largely mirror the previous model, including a 6.31-inch LTPO OLED display, 256GB of internal storage, a 4,415mAh battery with 30W wired charging, and eSIM capabilities. The device also features a 50MP main camera, a 13MP ultrawide lens, and a 32MP selfie camera, along with a microSD card slot, a side-mounted fingerprint scanner, Gorilla Glass 7i, and an IP55 rating for dust and splash resistance. The Fairphone Gen 6 Plus is available for purchase at a price of $649 or £569, and for the first time, a variety of accessories such as finger loops, lanyards, and cardholders are also offered in the US.
This direct market entry for the Fairphone Gen 6 Plus signifies a broader accessibility for ethical and sustainable technology. By providing a phone that is both environmentally conscious and designed for longevity through repairability and extensive software support, Fairphone empowers consumers to make choices that align with responsible consumption. The availability of accessories further enhances the user experience, while the device's robust features and improved performance ensure it meets the demands of modern smartphone users. This move not only expands Fairphone's global footprint but also champions a more sustainable future in consumer electronics.
