Modular Fairphone 3 now available for 450 EUR

The latest Fairphone model has just been launched and it comes with quite a few more modular components as well as updated specs, all for a “fair” price. Additionally, if users feel the modular components got outdated or malfunction for some reason, they can easily replace them or even upgrade them with newer ones.

While the new specs are mid-range at best, they do represent a significant upgrade from the previous model launched back in 2015. Powering the new Fairphone 3 is the Snapdragon 632 SoC coupled with 4 GB of RAM and 64 GB of storage expandable through microSD cards. The 5.65-inch FHD display does not have a notch, but the upper and lower bezels are quite prominent, featuring an 8 MP selfie cam and the brand logo, respectively. As for the back side, there is a circular fingerprint sensor and only one main camera featuring a 12 MP sensor plus dual pixel PDAF. It also supports dual Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.0, NFC, 4G LTE, comes equipped with dual nano SIM tray and runs Android 9 out-of-the-box. Audiophiles will be happy to know that this model still features an audio jack along with stereo speakers. The 3,000 mAh battery is replaceable and can be charged through the USB-C port, which is compatible with the Quick Charge 3.0 technology.

The Dutch company behind the new Fairphone 3 claims that it is using ethically-sourced materials, which include recycled plastic and copper, fair trade gold, plus tin and tungsten that are not sourced from conflict zones. For those interested in fixing and upgrading their model, the package also comes with a mini screwdriver, and the list of available modules (sold separately) includes:

• Main camera
• Speaker
• Bottom sensors
• Top sensors
• Display
• Battery
• Back cover

With an MSRP of 450 EUR, the Fairphone 3 is currently available only in Europe, and it is unclear if the model can support N.A. 4G networks.