The Fairphone 6+, Fairphone's latest Android device set to launch in 2026, offers increased speed and memory while maintaining compatibility with its predecessor. This model features 51% recycled or ethically sourced materials and is fully repairable at home using a screwdriver included in the box. For the first time, the Fairphone 6+ will be available in the US, retailing for £569 (€649/$650), which is £70 (€50) higher than its predecessor. It faces competition from devices like Google’s £499 Pixel 10a and Apple’s £599 iPhone 17e.
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The Fairphone 6+ appears nearly identical to the Fairphone 6, sharing a plastic body, a 120Hz OLED display, and a fingerprint scanner integrated into the power button. It remains compatible with various modular accessories that can be easily attached to its back. The new model is 2 grams heavier and is powered by an upgraded Snapdragon 7s Gen 4 chip, which, along with an additional 4GB of RAM for a total of 12GB, makes it 6-10% faster in testing. While it does not match the performance of leading smartphones from Apple, Samsung, or Google, it performs adequately for casual use and light gaming.
Battery life is on par with the previous model, lasting approximately a day and a half with about five hours of active use across 5G and Wi-Fi. Users will likely need to charge it nightly. A full recharge takes about 80 minutes with a 30W power adaptor (not included), reaching 50% in under half an hour.
The camera system maintains a dual setup with a 50-megapixel main camera and a 13MP ultra-wide camera. Although improvements have been made through software updates, low-light performance still falls short. However, the new Super Night AI feature helps enhance night shots.
Specifications include a 6.31-inch FHD+ OLED display, Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 4 processor, 12GB RAM, and 256GB of storage expandable via microSD. Connectivity features include 5G, eSIM, Wi-Fi 6E, NFC, Bluetooth 5.4, and GNSS, along with an IP55 rating for water resistance.
The device operates on Android 16, with support expected until 2033. Fairphone's software is straightforward, incorporating a couple of additional apps focused on repair and diagnostics. It also comes with an option for the open-source /e/OS, catering to privacy-conscious users.
The battery retains at least 80% of its capacity after 1,000 full charge cycles and can be replaced at home easily. The individual components like batteries, screens, and camera modules are priced affordably.
In summary, the Fairphone 6+ demonstrates that it’s possible to produce sustainable, repairable smartphones without sacrificing functionality. While it offers only slight upgrades from the original model, it remains a strong choice for those prioritizing ethical manufacturing and repairability over high-end specifications. However, users seeking premium smartphone performance may need to explore other options.