We are incredibly proud to have met and exceeded our initial 5 year promise from the 2019 launch. However, technical realities dictate our next steps. We are unable to move forward with the Android 14 upgrade, meaning security patches will stop in August. Additionally, global 2G and 3G network shutdowns mean the phone will soon lack fundamental features like voice calling in many regions.

Spare parts and accessories are now only selectively available. The display will no longer be available after March, and the battery will reach its End of Sales in August. We strongly encourage recycling old devices and upgrading to ensure a secure, fully functional experience.

Functionality will vary depending on the country and the specific operator. Because 2G and 3G networks are stopping, users in affected regions will begin experiencing issues and may lose the ability to make standard voice calls.

While keeping a device as long as possible is usually the most sustainable choice, upgrading from the Fairphone 3 has become a practical necessity because the phone will lose critical security patches by August 2026 and face functional obsolescence due to global 2G and 3G network shutdowns. However, this transition is designed to fuel the circular economy rather than contribute to traditional tech waste; by utilizing our recycling program, the rare materials within the old FP3 are responsibly harvested to build future devices. Furthermore, upgrading to the Fairphone Gen. 6 means investing in a product that sets a new standard for impact, as it is 100 percent electronic waste neutral, constructed with over 50 percent fair and recycled materials by weight, and backed by an industry leading longevity and repairability promise extending all the way to 2033.