To update your Fairphone, always use the regular procedure.
This article will help you install Fairphone OS via computer if you encounter issues with the regular procedure or if you are reverting to Fairphone OS from a different Operative System (OS).

Overview

These are the key steps for installing Fairphone OS manually. We'll cover everything in more detail below.

• Choose your preferred method of installation.
• Download the correct file.
• Prepare your Fairphone.
• Install the software.

Choose your preferred method of installation

There are two ways to install a Fairphone OS update - OTA sideload and flashing with fastboot. Each one has pros and cons.

OTA Sideload

Pros

• Does not wipe your data.
• Fewer steps, easier for beginners.

Cons

• Can be used to go only from older → newer software version. Does not work for downgrading.
• Can do only one update step at a time. If you missed two or more updates, you must flash with fastboot.
• Can not be used to return to Fairphone OS from a custom ROM.

Flashing with fastboot

Pros

• Works regardless of what version you are on.
• Can be used to downgrade to an older version (e.g. Android 13 → Android 11).
• Can be used to return to Fairphone OS from a custom ROM.

Cons

• Your data is always wiped.
• More steps, may be challenging for beginners.

Download the correct file

Make sure you've chosen the right method of installation based on the pros and cons above. The files are different for each one.

When the download it complete, move the file to your Desktop. This will be important later.

Prepare your Fairphone

1. Before you make any changes, back up your data. If you do not, you might lose your files like photos, music, contacts, etc.
2. Charge your Fairphone to 80%.
3. Enable USB Debugging:
   1. Go to Settings → About phone.
   2. Scroll all the way down and tap the Build number seven times until your phone asks for your screen lock (PIN, Password or Pattern). After you enter your screen lock, a small pop-up will appear, saying "You are now a developer".
   3. Go to Settings → System (→ Advanced) → Developer options.
   4. Scroll down until you find USB debugging and set the toggle to ON.
4. Remove SIM cards and SD cards before you proceed. When you have completed the procedure, you can insert them again.
5. Make sure you have access to a computer and a USB-C certified data cable.

Install the software

Click on your preferred method of installation to see the corresponding steps. If you're not sure, remember the pros and cons.

1. Follow all the steps in the article Manage the Bootloader to unlock your bootloader.
2. Make sure your Fairphone:
   • Is in fastboot mode;
   • Has an unlocked bootloader;
   • Is connected to the computer;
3. On your computer, extract the archive file you downloaded before.
4. Open the extracted folder and locate the right installation file.
   
   • The name of the file will start with something like "flash_fp3" or "flash_fp4".
   • For Windows, use the .bat file.
   • For macOS, use the .command file.
   • For Linux, use the .sh file.
5. Now that you've found the correct file, double-click to open it and begin the installation.

 

Note about macOS permissions

If a similar error message appears:

1. Click on OK.
2. Go to the Apple menu (top left corner of the screen) → System Settings.
3. Click on the icon Privacy & Security.
4. Scroll until you reach the Security tab.
5. Click on Open Anyway.
   
6. Continue from where you left off.

If after reading the article you need more help, contact our Customer Support.