Fairphone is finally introducing its eco-conscious smartphones to the US market. In partnership with Murena, the Fairphone 4 will now be available in the United States. The Murena Fairphone 4 is currently open for orders, with prices starting at $599 for a version with 6GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, according to the Murena store. A more advanced model offering 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage is priced at $679. The storage can be extended with a microSD card.
While the prices might seem rather high for a device that’s two years old and equipped with a 2020 mid-range Qualcomm chip, the Murena Fairphone 4 offers more than just specifications. It is a privacy-focused smartphone running an Android variant that is not reliant on Google. Murena’s /e/ OS replaces Google’s default apps. For instance, it uses an open-source mapping solution rather than Google Maps. The device features its own app directory with privacy ratings, offering insights into how each app handles your data before installation.
Users still have the option to install Google-developed apps. Murena claims to access apps from the Play Store without sharing your data with Google. A standard Android installation is possible but Murena cautions that it will invalidate your warranty. (Interestingly, in Europe, Fairphone 4 customers can choose either stock Android or /e/ OS right from purchase). Murena pledges to deliver software updates and security patches for a minimum of five years, and Fairphone offers a five-year hardware warranty.
The design philosophy of Fairphone is repairability, with the aim of prolonging the device’s lifespan. Fairphone 4 received a perfect 10 out of 10 repairability score from iFixit. The phone is modular in design, reportedly the first of its kind with an IP54 rating, indicating its resistance to dust and water. None of its components are glued together, enabling users to use a simple screwdriver for component swapping.
The Murena Fairphone 4 features a 3905mAh battery, 5G, and dual-SIM support. In terms of camera specifications, it boasts a dual 48MP rear camera and a 25MP front camera. Key components such as the device’s body, camera module, loudspeaker, USB-C port, and 6.3-inch display are all separate parts, and replacements can be purchased from Murena. The Murena Fairphone 4 package does not include a USB cable, power adapter, or headphones, as Murena encourages buyers to repurpose those they might already own.
Though the device is unlocked, it is recommended for use on the T-Mobile network and mobile virtual network operators utilizing the T-Mobile network in the US. As Fairphone’s main focus remains the European market, the US introduction of the device is being viewed as a pilot project. “Our collaboration with e/OS/ presents a valuable opportunity for us to experiment with selling devices in the US market and gain further insights into American consumer behavior,” stated Fairphone CEO Eva Gouwens in a statement to BuyTechBlog.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Fairphone 4 US Launch
Q: What is the Fairphone 4 and why is it being launched in the US?
A: The Fairphone 4 is a sustainability-focused smartphone known for its modular design and repairability. It is being launched in the US through a collaboration with Murena to bring eco-conscious smartphones to American consumers.
Q: How much does the Fairphone 4 cost in the US?
A: The Fairphone 4 is available for purchase in the US starting at $599 for the 6GB RAM and 128GB storage variant. There is also an option with 8GB RAM and 256GB storage priced at $679.
Q: What makes the Murena Fairphone 4 privacy-centric?
A: The Murena Fairphone 4 runs on an Android variant called /e/ OS, which is detangled from Google services. It replaces Google’s stock apps with open-source alternatives, offering enhanced privacy. The device also provides a privacy rating for each app and allows users to control their data tracking.
Q: Can I install Google apps on the Murena Fairphone 4?
A: Yes, you can still install Google-built apps on the Murena Fairphone 4. Murena claims to obtain apps from the Play Store without sending your information to Google. However, it’s important to note that installing a standard version of Android will void the warranty.
Q: Is the Fairphone 4 repairable?
A: Yes, repairability is a core aspect of the Fairphone 4’s design. It has a modular construction, allowing users to easily replace components without the need for specialized tools. The device received a perfect repairability score of 10 out of 10 from iFixit.
Q: What are the camera specifications of the Murena Fairphone 4?
A: The Murena Fairphone 4 features a dual 48MP rear camera and a 25MP selfie camera, providing users with high-resolution photography capabilities.
Q: Does the Murena Fairphone 4 come with accessories?
A: No, the Murena Fairphone 4 package does not include a USB cable, power adapter, or headphones. Murena encourages users to utilize their existing cables and adapters to reduce e-waste. These accessories are available for purchase separately.
Q: Which carriers are recommended for the Murena Fairphone 4 in the US?
A: The Murena Fairphone 4 is unlocked but recommended for use with T-Mobile and mobile virtual network operators that utilize the T-Mobile network in the US.
Q: How long will software updates and security patches be provided for the Murena Fairphone 4?
A: Murena plans to provide software updates and security patches for at least five years. Additionally, Fairphone offers a five-year hardware warranty, ensuring support and longevity for the device.
5 comments
the fairphone 4 is all about sustainability and reducing waste. u can use ur own cables and adapters with it. no need to buy new ones. murena is doing a great job making eco-friendly smartphones!
fairphone 4 is finally here in the us with the help of murena. its a moduler smartfone thats good for the environment and has priacy focus. gr8 for ppl who wana b sustainable!
Fairphone 4 is all about repairability and it has a perfect 10 out of 10 score from iFixit! u can swap out parts easily with a screwdriver. no glue! it also runs on /e/ OS, not google stuff. privacy ftw!
fairphone 4 is coming to the US market, finally! but it’s a pilot project, they’re more focused on Europe. let’s hope it does well here too. i’m excited to see how it competes with other smartphones.
wow, fairphone 4 has a dual 48MP rear camera and 25MP selfie cam! gonna take some awesome pics with that. and u can buy replacement parts from murena. no need to worry if something breaks!