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Reader-Submitted Project: Scandinavian Innovation Firm Above and the "World's Most Repairable Smartphone"
Core77 is always happy to receive news of projects that realign a particular category or product to sustainable values, so we pass this along to you: "Above Agency is proud to announce its latest collaboration with the pioneers at Fairphone. Building on the legacy of ethical and sustainable product development, the two teams unveil the Fairphone 5 – melding superior design, sustainability, and modularity."
Design Team
Ryan Helps, Senior Creative DirectorAleksandar Andreevski, Senior Industrial Designer
Dhruvee Tyagi, Senior Industrial Designer
Viggo Viking Blomqvist, Industrial Designer
Gustaf Ljunglöf, Senior Mechanical Engineer
Jens Leffler, Principal Circular Engineer
"A Design Evolution
Deepening our involvement, Above Agency did not simply rest on enhancing user experience through improved component interchangeability. We shaped the very components themselves, enhancing their visual appeal and reducing design clutter, resulting in a sleek, modern, and robust product.
The Fairphone 5 doesn't just look good; it feels good too. The design incorporates a larger screen, softer corners for a more ergonomic grip, and feels great in your hand. Fairphone 5 is designed for everyone, it's purposefully gender-neutral, with a conscious move away from over-technical details. The iconic triangle camera stands out, hinting at the phone's modular nature and echoing Fairphone's unique signature element from the Iconic Fairphone 4 design. One of the standout design elements is a striking translucent CMF back cover, a visual celebration of the innovation and sustainable ethos embedded within the product
An Uninterrupted Commitment to Sustainability
Understanding the pressing demand for sustainable technological advancements, Above Agency ensured our sustainability experts were embedded within Fairphone's design and development teams. Above and Fairphone collaborated closely, delving into in-depth material studies and impact assessments. This joint effort was aimed at maximizing the use of low-impact materials, like recycled plastics and recycled aluminum.
Premium Specs and Enhanced User Experience
The Fairphone 5 stands out as a premium device, notably thinner and lighter than its predecessors, boasting an improved IP55 weatherproof rating. The heart of Fairphone – its dedication to modularity and repairability – has been elevated. Ten spare parts, ranging from camera modules to SIM and SD card slots, are available, giving users greater autonomy in repairs and customization. Complementing this, Fairphone continues its generous five-year warranty offering, a testament to its product durability and confidence.
Industry-First Initiatives
In a groundbreaking move, Fairphone has championed the use of mineral credits. By partnering with organizations such as the Alliance for Responsible Mining (ARM), The Impact Facility (TIF), and the Fair Cobalt Alliance (FCA), Fairphone not only matches its material usage with ethical production practices but also directly supports the well-being of miners worldwide."
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Comments
I absolutely love this. Imagine the waste we'd avoid if this approach was taken for most consumer electronics. I understand the drawbacks, but personally I've never been worried about dropping my phone in a toilet and I'm not one to chase the latest and greatest features. I just want something that works reliably for several years at least (I went from an iPhone 5 to an iPhone 12, hoping to make it that many generations again before I have to upgrade). This is an understandably niche request, but I wish they'd make a mini version of this phone. A pocket-sized, modular, repairable, responsible phone is my tech dream.