Fnac Darty Service Barometer 2024: tracking sustainability and surability in electronics

Key findings and updates for 2024

This year’s barometer includes several significant updates, including changes in brand rankings, rising device lifespans, and an in-depth examination of reasons behind non-repairable products. For the sustainability index, brands are evaluated not just on repairability but on overall durability and product reliability. These factors, such as availability of spare parts at affordable prices, are crucial for determining a product's long-term viability.

The barometer data was collected from Fnac Darty's customer feedback, service centers, and the DartyMax program. In total, 9,933 responses were recorded from January to August 2024, and the study analyzed over 1.1 million instances of device malfunctions from August 2023 to July 2024.

Smartphone durability: Apple's dominance, Honor's surprise rise

The study highlights a notable increase in the average durability score, which now stands at 113 points, marking a 4-point increase from last year. Apple leads the pack with an impressive score of 146, maintaining its top position. However, the surprise of the year is Honor, which has climbed two spots to second place. Despite a slight dip in its repairability score (-4 points), Honor's reliability has skyrocketed (+15 points), propelling the brand forward.

Samsung, a consistent frontrunner in past years, has dropped to third place. While it maintains a solid 7-year parts availability, compared to Honor's 5 years, the South Korean giant lost points in durability (-3), reliability (-3), and repairability (-3).

Chinese brands Oppo and Xiaomi round out the top five, with Oppo making a notable comeback in late 2024 and Xiaomi gaining points thanks to its improving reliability.

The rising importance of sustainability in consumer electronics

Sustainability is now a major factor in consumer purchasing decisions. With increasing demand for longer-lasting products, consumers are looking beyond initial purchase prices, opting for devices that offer longevity and reliability. As the second-hand market continues to grow, this focus on durability is set to play a larger role in shaping industry trends.

Fnac Darty's 2024 Service Barometer underscores the need for manufacturers to prioritize both repairability and sustainability to stay competitive in a rapidly evolving market. With sustainability at the forefront of purchasing decisions, brands that adapt to these expectations are well-positioned for long-term success.