Dutch ethical-electronics maker Fairphone is making its U.S. debut with its repairable headphone line, setting the stage for a future phone launch that taps into the growing right-to-repair movement. With a strategy built for uncertainty, the company is betting that consumers and legislators nationwide will embrace products designed for longevity and easy fixes.
Fairphone enters the U.S. market as more than two dozen states advance right-to-repair measures, pushing back against devices that are costly or impossible to repair. This wave of legislation comes as consumers increasingly consider the total cost of ownership, not just upfront price tags inflated by tariffs.
In recent years Fairphone has achieved strong growth, reporting a 61 percent year-on-year revenue increase in the third quarter of 2025. Device sales soared 61 percent, audio products rose 40 percent, and spare parts demand climbed 41 percent, highlighting consumer appetite for sustainable tech solutions.
Manufacturing on the Chinese mainland, Fairphone emphasizes supply chain traceability from mineral sourcing to chip production. This transparency helps the company navigate component shortages and distinguish its brand in a crowded market.
The company aims to match its European audio sales in the U.S. this year, despite a 34 percent tariff on imported units. Its audio line, launched through a partnership with Amazon, serves as a beachhead ahead of a wider rollout. Fairphone 6, the flagship device expected later, promises eight years of software support, a five-year warranty, and spare parts availability until 2033.
With more than 90 percent of phones in the U.S. sold through mobile network operators, Fairphone is planning a carefully staged entry that balances direct-to-consumer channels with carrier partnerships. The move offers a fresh perspective on sustainable electronics for tech enthusiasts, eco-conscious consumers, and change-makers around the world.
Reference(s):
Europe's Fairphone enters U.S. market tapping right-to-repair demand
cgtn.com
