Dutch ethical electronics maker Fairphone has officially entered the United States market with the launch of its modular, repairable Fairbuds XL headphones. The company said the move aims to build brand awareness and consumer trust ahead of a possible smartphone release, capitalising on rising interest in sustainable technology and expanding right-to-repair legislation. Fairphone’s audio products will be distributed through established retail partners while the company continues to assess potential operator and retail channels for future device sales. Industry observers suggest that starting with headphones may also relate to Fairphone’s existing agreement with Murena, its U.S. distributor of smartphones running the privacy-focused /e/OS. That partnership likely restricts Fairphone from selling its own smartphones directly in North America, making the Fairbuds XL a strategic first step.
Right-to-repair as market signal
Fairphone’s chief executive Raymond van Eck described U.S. right-to-repair developments as a clear demand signal. With several states enacting laws that make devices easier to service, Fairphone believes its modular, repair-first design philosophy could resonate with consumers who consider total cost of ownership and long-term support when buying devices. The strategy aims to convert a legislative tailwind into commercial opportunity.
Financial momentum and growth
The company reported a 61% year-on-year revenue increase in the third quarter of 2025, with device sales up 61%, audio up 40% and spare parts up 41%. Fairphone points to a return to profitability in 2024 with a positive EBITDA of € 1.7 million and improved gross margins. These financial results underpin the decision to expand beyond Europe. Based on this revenue growth SecondaryMarket.news estimates that Fairphone shipped around 168.000 sustainable smartphones. A huge improvement if compared to previous years, but on a global level still relatively small.
Tariffs and pricing headwinds
Fairphone faces a 34% tariff that currently affects pricing in the U.S. market. The company said tariffs and trade uncertainty are part of the calculus but argued that consumers prioritising repairability and longevity may accept a higher upfront price when long-term support and spare parts reduce total ownership costs.
Product support and longevity
Fairphone highlights long-term support for its flagship Fairphone 6, with spare parts guaranteed until 2033 and extended warranty provisions. The company markets longevity and modular repairability as differentiators compared with mainstream manufacturers that often limit after-sales support windows.
Distribution and future phone plans
More than 90% of phones in the U.S. are sold through mobile network operators, making any smartphone rollout also rather complex. Fairphone has characterised the Fairbuds XL launch as a lower-barrier entry point to build brand recognition and distribution relationships before pursuing a full smartphone introduction. The headphones are intended to educate consumers about modular repairability and the economics of sustainable devices.
Regulatory and consumer context
Increasing legislative support for repair rights and a consumer shift toward sustainability provide context for Fairphone’s timing. The company manufactures in China but emphasises supply chain traceability and responsibly sourced materials as central to its proposition. Whether this proposition achieves scale in a market dominated by large incumbents will depend on pricing, operator relationships and how effectively Fairphone communicates long-term value. Fairphone’s U.S. entry is a calculated step that tests whether repairability can be a competitive advantage in a tariff-impacted, operator-led market.
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Trade-in
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Refurbishing
