Amsterdam-based company Fairphone, known for its commitment to sustainability and repairability in the electronics industry, has expanded its product range to include user-repairable wireless headphones. The newly-launched Fairbuds XL over-ear headphones follow the same principles as the company's modular smartphones, offering consumers an alternative to the disposable nature of many electronic devices.
What sets the Fairbuds XL apart is their design, which incorporates nine modular components that can be easily replaced or repaired. The components include the battery, speaker-to-speaker cable, earcap covers, headband, ear cushion, headband base, speakers, and headband cover. Customers can order these components through the company's website or the Fairbuds app, enabling them to extend the lifespan of their headphones and reduce electronic waste.
Priced at €249, the Fairbuds XL headphones are primarily sold in Europe, although some authorised resellers ship them to other parts of the world. These headphones feature several impressive specifications, including a 30-hour battery life, 40 mm dynamic drivers for high-quality sound, and active noise cancellation. They also come equipped with a USB-C connector for charging, a 10-meter Bluetooth range, and support for smart assistants.
Fairphone emphasizes the environmental and social impact of its products. The Fairbuds XL are made from 100 percent recycled plastics, aluminum, and tin solder paste whenever possible. Additionally, the company pledges to pay $0.55 per headphone to fill the living wage gap for production line workers, further promoting fair working conditions. Aligning with the European Union's goals to reduce e-waste and transition to a circular economy by 2050, Fairphone's approach aligns with upcoming policies such as the Right to Repair and Ecodesign for Sustainable Products.
In terms of functionality, the Fairbuds XL deliver impressive sound quality and active noise cancellation. They offer a frequency response range of 20Hz to 20KHz and support Bluetooth 5.1 with dual-point connectivity, allowing users to connect and switch between two paired devices. Fairphone has also partnered with Sonarworks, a sound calibration company, to provide SoundID software, enabling users to customise their audio profiles for a more personalised listening experience.
While the Fairbuds XL design may not match the cutting-edge aesthetics of some high-end headphones, their focus on sustainability and repairability sets them apart. Fairphone's commitment to providing user-repairable and eco-friendly products contributes to the company's mission to create a more sustainable and ethical electronics industry. By empowering consumers to repair and replace components, Fairphone aims to reduce electronic waste and promote a circular economy while offering a quality audio experience.
