Fairphone 5: Keeping it 10/10? | iFixit News
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Is the Fairphone 5 just a repeat of a proven formula or a real improvement compared to its predecessors?

While they were happy with what the fairphone 4 brought to the table, they seem to like what was changed for the fairphone 5.
What are you guys’ opinions on this? A welcome change? would you get one if your phone died within the next year?

  • arc@lemm.eeEnglish
    231·
    11 months ago

    I wouldn’t say the Fairphone 5 wins prizes for looks or functionality but it does show that it is entirely possible to make a phone with a replaceable battery and repairable components in a modern form factor. If they, a small boutique phone maker can do it, then there is absolutely no excuse that Apple, Samsung, Oppo etc. cannot do the same.

    One failing of Fairphone is you cannot buy the mainboard (the core component) from their store. All the other components yes, but not the mainboard. The core is not just the CPU, flash but also some other things like microphone are on it. It would also be nice if people could order all the parts that make up a Fairphone 5 and assemble one entirely from scratch.

    I’ve also read through their ethics / green reports in the past, and while it talks it up with “supply chain engagement” reports and so on, most of their components are still made to order by Chinese OEMs so how far does it go down the chain in reality.

    • ruplicant@sh.itjust.worksEnglish
      8·
      11 months ago

      One failing of Fairphone is you cannot buy the mainboard (the core component) from their store. All the other components yes, but not the mainboard. The core is not just the CPU, flash but also some other things like microphone are on it. It would also be nice if people could order all the parts that make up a Fairphone 5 and assemble one entirely from scratch.

      good point. with the mainboard available they would be on Framework’s level and that would be amazing

    • DacoTaco@lemmy.worldOPEnglish
      1·
      11 months ago

      Few comments here that id like feedback from somebody, if possible :

      • fairphone does not sell mainboards seperately because things like the phone imei is linked to it, which in itself is often linked to the mobile provider. Changing this isnt always allowed, depending on the country/state/whatever
      • afaik they do still order from china oems, but i think they choose parts that are certified to not be made with childlabor, unethical stuff etc etc. If it is like that, nobody knows. Thats the problem with the whole fight against unethical stuff
    • DJDarren@thelemmy.clubEnglish
      32·
      11 months ago

      then there is absolutely no excuse that Apple, Samsung, Oppo etc. cannot do the same.

      There is an excuse: it costs them money. If you can easily and cheaply repair your phone, you won’t buy a new one.