Fairphone, a manufacturer specializing in repairable smartphones, has unveiled a new selection of USB cables and chargers. Though these new products are not designed for user repair, the company claims they are made from more durable materials and produced with a greater emphasis on sustainability compared to their previous offerings. Importantly, they also provide a more economical entry point for consumers interested in ethical tech, even for those who do not own a Fairphone device.
The latest cables in the lineup feature USB-C to USB-C connections, along with a detachable USB-A adapter. These cables are capable of delivering a power output of up to 240W and are engineered to endure a minimum of 70,000 bends—far exceeding the 30,000 bends offered by competitors such as Belkin and Ugreen. Additionally, Fairphone’s cables utilize entirely recycled copper wires and feature braided jackets made from recycled plastic. For the first time, gold and silver used in the products are sourced through Fairmined credits, which help support responsible mining practices by directing funds to small-scale operations, though they do not fully guarantee the metals’ origins.
The range consists of three types of cables: a 1m (3.3ft) version and a 2.5m (8.2ft) variant utilizing the USB 2.0 specification, both priced from €19.95 (approximately $23). Additionally, there is a 1m (3.3ft) cable featuring USB 3.2 for €34.95 (about $40), which includes enhancements that allow for data transfer speeds up to 20 Gbps, and video output capabilities of 4K at 120Hz and 8K at 30Hz.
In addition to the cables, Fairphone is introducing two new chargers made from 100% recycled plastic for the casing, with plug pins crafted from a recycled copper-zinc alloy. The available 30W charger is currently priced at €24.95 (about $29) and features a single USB-C port, supporting various charging standards such as PD, PPS, and specifications from Samsung and Apple. A 65W three-port charger is set to be released by the end of September.
All of Fairphone’s new products have been manufactured with renewable energy and come with a three-year warranty included. They are available for purchase through Fairphone’s website and partner retailers across Europe. However, Alon Brandt, the company’s public relations manager, mentioned that they are currently awaiting certification before launching in the United States.
In the meantime, I am reviewing the Fairphone 6, the company’s most recent smartphone. While these accessories are pricier than many alternatives, they provide a significant ethical advantage due to their fair production practices, along with the benefit of a longer warranty period. If investing $899 in a sustainable phone seems daunting, spending $20 to $40 on more eco-friendly accessories may be more attainable for consumers.
