Fairphone Gen 6 Plus Launches in US with Full Android, but Price Divides Fans

For that price, the Fairphone Gen 6 Plus offers a 6.31-inch 120Hz OLED display, a mid-range Snapdragon 7s Gen 4 chipset, 12GB of RAM, 256GB of storage, a microSD card slot, and a 4,415mAh battery with 30W wired charging. It lacks wireless charging. The camera system includes a 50MP main sensor, a 13MP ultra-wide lens, and a 32MP selfie camera. These specifications are generally described as mid-range at best, and weaker than what many comparably priced phones offer.

However, the phone stands out for reasons beyond raw specs. Its modular design lets users swap out 12 parts themselves, making repairs straightforward, such as replacing a worn battery. Software support is promised until 2033, which means, in theory, buyers could avoid purchasing another phone for a long time. Fairphone also emphasizes ethical production, including higher wages, safer factories, and net-zero emissions targets.

Reaction to the price has been divided among smartphone fans. In comments on TechRadar's TikTok, one user argued that comparing the Fairphone to other phones by price is like comparing a $5 Walmart steak to a steak from a local ranch, suggesting other phones are cheap because of worker exploitation. Another commenter countered that a similarly priced phone with better specs would last longer if properly cared for, questioning the longevity argument. Other comments ranged from skepticism to outright rejection, with one person calling the phone "dead on arrival" and adding "this must be a joke at this price."

TechRadar's writer noted that Fairphone has never been a mainstream brand, and its products are not for everyone. The writer expressed support for the company's fairness mission, while acknowledging that a higher-spec Fairphone would be more compelling to tech enthusiasts. The publication is currently testing the Fairphone Gen 6 Plus, with a full review expected in the coming weeks.