We are retiring the Fairphone 3 and Fairphone 3+ as of August 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 is the Fairphone 3 and 3+ retiring?

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 ends in August 2026. We will stop sales of all accessories and spare parts on our online shop in August 2026. 

The timeline for this retirement includes:

• 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 2026: Software support will end, and online shop spare parts sales will likely stop.

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

Why can I still buy the phone from some sales partners?

Our sales partners in Europe sell the remaining smartphones they have in stock. We do not have an accurate overview of their current stock levels, so please check with our sales partners directly.

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

We recommend that you troubleshoot your issue first to check if a hardware defect is causing the problem. If a physical part must be replaced, you can use these options:

• Buy remaining spare parts directly from our online shop before August 2026.
• Visit a local repair shop for a diagnosis.
• Contact customer support to send your phone to our repair center.

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

Can I purchase an individual core module?

No. Core modules are not for sale. Our technicians must replace core modules to prevent damage from electrostatic discharge. If your core module breaks, contact customer support to arrange a repair. You can review our repair price list to verify costs before you send your smartphone.

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?

First try our self-service portal and then 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.