How to connect headphones and audio equipment to your Fairphone
Connecting headphones or external audio equipment to your Fairphone is quick and simple. This guide explains how to connect wired or wireless audio equipment across all Fairphone models, choose the right adapter, and fix audio port issues on older models.
Ways to connect your audio equipment
- Wireless Bluetooth connection: Pair your Bluetooth headphones or external speakers directly on your phone under Settings > Connected devices > Pair new device.
- USB-C headphones: Plug digital USB-C headphones directly into the USB-C charging port on the bottom of your phone.
- USB-C to 3.5mm adapter: Connect a USB-C adapter to the charging port so you can keep using standard 3.5mm wired headphones.
Why newer Fairphone models do not have an audio jack
Removing the built-in 3.5mm audio jack allows us to design thinner smartphones, fit larger long-lasting batteries, and keep room inside for repairable spare parts. Removing this port also improves protection against dust and water, helping modern models achieve IP ratings like IP55 on Fairphone 4 and IP68 on Fairphone 5.
Audio connections by Fairphone model
| Fairphone model | Built-in 3.5mm audio jack | USB-C audio support | Bluetooth support |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fairphone (Gen.6/Gen.6+) | No | Yes | Yes |
| Fairphone 5 | No | Yes | Yes |
| Fairphone 4 | No | Yes | Yes |
| Fairphone 3+ | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Fairphone 3 | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Fairphone 2 | Yes | No (Micro-USB port) | Yes |
| Fairphone 1 | Yes | No (Micro-USB port) | Yes |
How to fix built-in audio jack issues on Fairphone 3 and Fairphone 2
If sound is missing, distorted, or playing out of only one ear when using the built-in 3.5mm audio jack on a Fairphone 3+, Fairphone 3, or Fairphone 2, follow these steps to resolve the issue:
- Plug in a different pair of wired headphones to confirm the cable or 3.5mm plug is not damaged.
- Inspect the audio port and carefully clean out any dust or pocket lint using compressed air or a wooden toothpick.
- Restart your phone to clear temporary software glitches.
- If the port remains non-functional due to hardware damage, you can replace the top spare part yourself. Thanks to our modular architecture, you do not need to replace your whole phone—you can simply order a replacement top spare part from our online shop and complete a quick self-repair.
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.