Fairphone 6 Plus brings ethical midrange performance to market

Fairphone unveiled the 6 Plus on 12 March 2024, a mid‑range Android phone that promises ethical sourcing and easy repairability. The device runs on a Snapdragon 695 chipset, has 8 GB of RAM, a 6.5‑inch 120‑Hz display, and a 48‑MP main camera. It comes in a 128‑GB variant for €349, and a 256‑GB version for €399. The company says the phone is built with recycled plastics and conflict‑free cobalt, and that its modular design allows users to swap out parts without tools.

The move follows Fairphone’s long‑standing goal to make smartphones that don’t rely on exploitative mining or opaque supply chains. Since its first model in 2013, the brand has sourced materials from certified mines and partnered with NGOs to trace its supply chain. Earlier releases, like the Fairphone 5, were praised for sustainability but criticised for weak processors that left users waiting for basic apps. The 6 Plus addresses this by offering a more capable chip while keeping the ethical focus intact.

Reviewers note that the 6 Plus feels like a typical mid‑range phone in day‑to‑day use. The Snapdragon 695 delivers smooth performance for browsing, streaming, and light gaming. Battery life is solid, lasting a full day on a single charge under moderate use. The camera performs well in good lighting but struggles in low light, a trade‑off for keeping costs down. Repairability is a standout feature: the phone’s battery, camera, and display can be swapped with a simple screwdriver, and the company offers a repair guide online. Critics say the device still lags behind flagship models in raw power, but for users prioritising sustainability, the compromise is acceptable.

Looking ahead, Fairphone plans to roll out a 6 Plus‑Pro with a faster processor and a 500‑mAh battery in late 2024. The brand is also exploring partnerships with major carriers to offer trade‑in programs that encourage users to switch to ethical phones. If the 6 Plus gains traction, it could signal a shift in the mid‑range market, pushing larger manufacturers to adopt more transparent sourcing and repairable designs. The phone’s success will hinge on whether consumers are willing to trade a few performance points for a device that aligns with their values.