We retired the Fairphone 3 and Fairphone 3+ as of August 5, 2026. This guide answers questions about what this milestone means for your smartphone, how to handle security, and your choices for spare parts and recycling. 

When was the Fairphone 3 and 3+ retired?

In 2019, we promised to support the Fairphone 3 for five years until 2024. We are incredibly proud to have met and exceeded that promise. 

We announced the retirement of the Fairphone 3 and Fairphone 3+ in April 2026. Direct software support and sales of accessories and spare parts ended August 5, 2026. 

The timeline for this retirement was:

• September 2021: The last Fairphone 3 devices were sold.
• November 2022: The last Fairphone 3+ devices were sold. 
• June 2026: We released the last software update for Fairphone 3 and 3+.
• August 5 2026: Software support, spare parts sales, and repair services ended. 

We will continue to offer basic troubleshooting support through our help centre and customer support and will continue to support spare parts that are still under warranty. However, we can no longer send Fairphone 3 and 3+ devices for repair. 

Can I use my Fairphone 3 and 3+ after software support ends?

Yes, you can use your Fairphone 3 and 3+ devices. However, without software updates, performance and security will be compromised. Certain applications, like banking tools or government services, might not work without security updates.

Voice calling and data connectivity will change due to global 2G and 3G network shutdowns. As cellular providers phase out these networks in many regions, the phones may no longer be able to make standard phone calls.

Do I have to stop using my phone if there are no more updates?

No. In line with our commitment to longevity, we strongly encourage our community to explore alternative operating systems.

Switching to an alternative operating system allows you to receive security patches and feature updates. You can look into these community-driven projects:

• /e/OS: A privacy-first, de-Googled operating system from Murena. 
• LineageOS: A community project that runs builds based on Android 15.
• postmarketOS: An open-source, longevity-focused Linux environment.

Why is an upgrade to Android 14 not possible?

A smartphone requires a core piece of software called a kernel to act as a translator between your physical hardware and the Android system. The Fairphone 3 and Fairphone 3+ use an older, legacy Linux kernel version (4.9). Google designed Android 14 with advanced security features that require a much newer kernel to function safely.

Upgrading this software framework on an older hardware chip presents severe technical barriers. Forcing the update would cause major performance issues, including unexpected restarts, heavy battery drain, and broken smartphone features. Because your data security and phone stability are our top priorities, we will not release an unstable update that compromises your smartphone.

Spare parts, repairs, and stock availability

Can I still buy the phone from sales partners?

To our knowledge, there are no sales partners who still have Fairphone 3 in stock. 

What do I do if my out-of-warranty phone breaks?

If a physical part must be replaced, you can use these options:

• Source spare parts from the Fairphone online community
• Visit a local repair shop for a diagnosis.

If a repair is not possible, you can choose to recycle your phone.

How do I recycle my Fairphone 3 or 3+?

We recommend recycling your device responsibly so that valuable materials inside can re-enter the supply chain without becoming waste. You can use our Reuse and Recycle Program to return the phone to us. This program ensures that materials inside are safely recycled for raw materials. You might also qualify for an online shop gift card. 

Still need help?

If you still require assistance, reach out to our customer support team. You can also open a support request directly through the My Fairphone app pre-installed on your device.