What is the Fairphone 4 and what is its significance in the Fairphone product line?

The Fairphone 4 is a smartphone designed and marketed by Fairphone. It serves as the successor to the Fairphone 3+ and was later succeeded by the Fairphone 5, representing a significant iteration in the company's line of ethically produced and repairable mobile devices.

When was the Fairphone 4 first announced and when did it become available for order?

The Fairphone 4 was announced on September 30, 2021, and customers could begin ordering it starting October 25, 2021. This marked the official launch period for the device.

What was the duration of the Fairphone 4's sales period?

The Fairphone 4 was available for purchase from its release date on October 25, 2021, until December 2024. After this date, Fairphone ceased production and sales of this model.

How many units of the Fairphone 4 were sold during its production run?

A total of 192,056 units of the Fairphone 4 were sold. This figure represents the total sales recorded for the device.

Which models preceded and succeeded the Fairphone 4 in the Fairphone product lineup?

The Fairphone 4 succeeded the Fairphone 3+, and it was subsequently succeeded by the Fairphone 5. This indicates a continuous development and release cycle for Fairphone's smartphone offerings.

What is the physical form factor of the Fairphone 4?

The Fairphone 4 utilizes a slate form factor, which is the standard design for most modern smartphones, characterized by a single, flat touchscreen display.

What are the physical dimensions and weight of the Fairphone 4?

The Fairphone 4 measures 162 mm in height, 75.5 mm in width, and 10.5 mm in thickness, which translates to approximately 6.38 inches by 2.97 inches by 0.41 inches. It weighs 225 grams, or about 7.9 ounces.

What operating system did the Fairphone 4 originally come with, and what was its upgrade path?

The Fairphone 4 originally shipped with Android 11, codenamed "Red Velvet Cake." It was designed to be upgradable, and as of June 2023, it had been updated to Android 13, codenamed "Tiramisu."

What is the underlying chipset or System-on-Chip (SoC) used in the Fairphone 4?

The Fairphone 4 is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 750G system-on-chip. This processor is known for providing a balance of performance and power efficiency, and it enables features like 5G connectivity.

What are the available memory (RAM) and storage options for the Fairphone 4?

The Fairphone 4 comes in configurations with either 6 GB or 8 GB of RAM. For internal storage, users could choose between 128 GB or 256 GB.

Does the Fairphone 4 support expandable storage, and if so, to what capacity?

Yes, the Fairphone 4 supports removable storage via a Micro SD card. It can accommodate cards with a capacity of up to 2 TB (terabytes), allowing users to significantly expand their storage space.

What types of SIM cards does the Fairphone 4 support?

The Fairphone 4 supports both a physical Nano SIM card and an eSIM (embedded SIM). This dual-SIM capability offers flexibility in managing multiple phone numbers or network plans.

Describe the battery specifications for the Fairphone 4, including capacity and charging capabilities.

The Fairphone 4 is equipped with a Lithium-Ion (Li-Ion) battery that has a capacity of 3905 mAh. It also supports 20W fast charging, allowing the battery to be replenished more quickly.

What are the specifications of the rear camera system on the Fairphone 4?

The Fairphone 4 features a triple rear camera module. This includes a 48-megapixel wide-angle lens with optical image stabilization (OIS), another 48-megapixel ultrawide lens, and a TOF 3D (Time-of-Flight) depth sensor.

What is the resolution and type of the front-facing camera on the Fairphone 4?

The Fairphone 4 has a 25-megapixel front-facing camera designed for selfies and video calls. It is a wide-angle lens, ensuring a broader field of view.

What type of display does the Fairphone 4 use, and what are its key specifications?

The Fairphone 4 features an IPS LCD (In-Plane Switching Liquid Crystal Display) with a size of 6.3 inches. It has a resolution of 1080 x 2340 pixels, resulting in a pixel density of approximately 409 pixels per inch (ppi), with an aspect ratio of 19.5:9.

What are the primary wired and wireless connectivity options available on the Fairphone 4?

The Fairphone 4 utilizes a USB-C 3.0 port, which supports DisplayPort for video output and USB On-The-Go (OTG). It also supports Miracast for wireless screen mirroring.

What satellite navigation systems are supported by the Fairphone 4?

The Fairphone 4 supports dual-band GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System), providing access to multiple navigation constellations including GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou, and Galileo. This ensures more accurate and reliable location tracking.

What were the key improvements introduced in the Fairphone 4 compared to its predecessor, the Fairphone 3+?

Major upgrades in the Fairphone 4 over the Fairphone 3+ include a larger display, a significantly improved rear camera system with optical image stabilization (OIS), a better selfie camera, the addition of 5G network support, enhanced durability with IP54 dust and splash protection and MIL810G certification, a USB-C port, a larger battery, and faster 20W charging.

What sustainable and ethically sourced materials are used in the construction of the Fairphone 4?

The Fairphone 4 incorporates several responsibly sourced materials, including Fairtrade-certified gold, aluminum from suppliers certified by the Aluminium Stewardship Initiative (ASI), fair tungsten sourced from Rwanda, and recycled tin, rare earth minerals, and plastics. These choices reflect Fairphone's commitment to ethical sourcing and environmental responsibility.

How is the Fairphone 4 designed to facilitate repairability, and what makes its modular design unique?

The Fairphone 4 is built with a modular design consisting of seven distinct modules, making it significantly easier to repair than most smartphones. Key aspects include a rear cover that can be removed without tools, an easily replaceable battery, and a display that can be removed with a standard Phillips #00 screwdriver, alongside other user-replaceable modules.

What is Fairphone's commitment regarding software support and warranty for the Fairphone 4?

Fairphone pledged to provide software support for the Fairphone 4 until at least 2026, aiming to deliver major Android updates and security patches. Additionally, the device initially came with up to a 5-year warranty, depending on the purchase date, which is considerably longer than the standard warranty offered by many manufacturers.

Besides the official Fairphone OS, what alternative operating systems are available or supported for the Fairphone 4?

The Fairphone 4 is supported by custom ROMs like LineageOS, which enables users to install newer Android versions, including Android 15. CalyxOS, another privacy-focused Android distribution, is also available for the device, and the /e/ operating system, which focuses on privacy and de-Googling, also supports the Fairphone 4.

What aspects of the Fairphone 4's reception were generally positive among reviewers?

Reviewers largely praised the Fairphone 4 for its strong commitment to software support, promising updates for several years, and its extended warranty period of up to five years. The improvements made over its predecessor, particularly in hardware and durability features, were also highlighted positively.

What criticisms were leveled against the Fairphone 4 in reviews?

Despite its strengths, the Fairphone 4 faced criticism for the removal of the headphone jack, which is a feature many users still value. Some reviews also noted occasional sluggish performance, and the quality of the camera and the fingerprint sensor were mentioned as areas that could be improved.

What specific security concerns did GrapheneOS raise regarding the Fairphone 4's firmware and operating system?

GrapheneOS criticized the Fairphone 4 for being shipped with publicly accessible private keys for its firmware and stock operating system. This practice compromises security features like verified boot and the hardware keystore, potentially making the device more vulnerable.

In addition to the security concerns, what other issues did GrapheneOS point out about the Fairphone 4's software updates?

GrapheneOS also noted that Fairphone did not consistently provide timely firmware updates for the Fairphone 4. This lack of prompt updates can further impact the device's overall security posture and user trust.

When did Fairphone cease the production and sale of the Fairphone 4?

Fairphone officially stopped the production and sale of the Fairphone 4 in December 2024. This marked the end of its commercial availability as a new device.

Will software updates and spare parts continue to be available for the Fairphone 4 after its end of sale?

Yes, Fairphone has stated that software updates for the Fairphone 4 will continue even after the end of its sales period. Furthermore, the production and sale of spare parts are guaranteed to continue until at least 2028, supporting the device's long-term usability.

What is listed under the "See also" section related to the Fairphone 4?

The "See also" section lists "Modular smartphone," indicating that the Fairphone 4 is an example of this category of mobile devices designed with repairability and customization in mind.

What specific type of display technology is used for the Fairphone 4's screen?

The Fairphone 4 utilizes an IPS LCD (In-Plane Switching Liquid Crystal Display) technology for its screen. IPS LCD panels are known for offering good color accuracy and wide viewing angles.

What is the aspect ratio and pixel density of the Fairphone 4's display?

The display on the Fairphone 4 has an aspect ratio of 19.5:9, which is common for modern smartphones providing a taller screen. Its pixel density is approximately 409 pixels per inch (ppi), indicating a sharp and detailed visual experience.

What are the charging specifications for the Fairphone 4's battery?

The Fairphone 4's battery supports 20W fast charging. This allows the 3905 mAh battery to be recharged more quickly compared to standard charging speeds.

What specific certifications or protection standards does the Fairphone 4 meet regarding durability?

The Fairphone 4 meets IP54 standards for dust and splash protection, meaning it offers a significant degree of resistance against dust ingress and water splashes. It also holds MIL810G certification, indicating it has passed tests designed to assess durability under various environmental conditions, such as drops and vibrations.

How does the Fairphone 4's modular design contribute to its longevity and sustainability?

The modular design of the Fairphone 4, with its easily replaceable components like the screen, battery, and other modules, allows users to repair the device themselves or through authorized channels. This extends the phone's lifespan, reduces electronic waste, and aligns with Fairphone's sustainability goals by encouraging users to keep their devices longer rather than replacing them.

What is the significance of Fairtrade-certified gold and ASI-certified aluminum in the Fairphone 4's materials?

The use of Fairtrade-certified gold and Aluminum Stewardship Initiative (ASI) Performance Standard certified aluminum signifies Fairphone's commitment to ethical sourcing practices. Fairtrade certification ensures fair wages and working conditions for miners, while ASI certification promotes responsible aluminum production that addresses environmental and social impacts.

What is the purpose of the TOF 3D sensor in the Fairphone 4's rear camera system?

The TOF 3D (Time-of-Flight) sensor in the Fairphone 4's rear camera setup functions as a depth sensor. It measures the distance to objects by calculating the time it takes for light to bounce off them, which helps improve autofocus accuracy and enables better portrait modes with background blur effects.

How does the Fairphone 4's approach to software updates differ from many other smartphone manufacturers?

Fairphone distinguishes itself by offering a longer commitment to software updates, pledging support until at least 2026 and aiming for future OS upgrades. This contrasts with many manufacturers who typically provide only 2-3 years of major OS updates and security patches, encouraging users to upgrade their devices more frequently.

What specific security features were reportedly compromised due to the Fairphone 4's firmware key practices, according to GrapheneOS?

According to GrapheneOS, the Fairphone 4's security was compromised because it was shipped with publicly available private keys for its firmware and stock operating system. This practice undermines critical security mechanisms such as verified boot, which ensures the integrity of the software loading process, and the hardware keystore, which securely stores cryptographic keys.

What is the capacity of the Fairphone 4's battery, and what does "fast charging" imply in this context?

The Fairphone 4 has a battery capacity of 3905 mAh (milliampere-hours), which is a measure of its electrical charge. The mention of 20W fast charging indicates that the phone can recharge its battery significantly faster than devices using lower wattage chargers, reducing the time needed to power up.

What does the MIL810G certification signify for the Fairphone 4?

MIL810G certification indicates that the Fairphone 4 has undergone and passed a series of rigorous tests designed by the U.S. military to assess the durability and reliability of equipment under various challenging environmental conditions. This suggests the phone is built to withstand more demanding usage scenarios than devices without such certification.

How does the Fairphone 4's support for dual-band GNSS enhance its navigation capabilities?

The Fairphone 4's support for dual-band GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) means it can receive signals from multiple satellite constellations (like GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou, and Galileo) on two different frequency bands. This dual-band capability generally leads to more accurate positioning, faster signal acquisition, and improved reliability, especially in challenging environments like urban canyons or dense foliage.

What is the significance of the Fairphone 4's support for eSIM?

The inclusion of eSIM support means the Fairphone 4 can utilize a digital SIM profile instead of a physical SIM card. This offers convenience for users who switch carriers frequently or manage multiple lines, as it eliminates the need to physically swap SIM cards.

What is the primary goal of Fairphone's business model, as exemplified by the Fairphone 4?

The primary goal of Fairphone's business model, as demonstrated by the Fairphone 4, is to create more sustainable and ethical electronics. This involves focusing on fair labor practices, responsible sourcing of materials, extending product lifespan through modularity and repairability, and providing long-term software support.

What does the term "System-on-Chip" (SoC) refer to in the context of the Fairphone 4's Qualcomm Snapdragon 750G?

A System-on-Chip (SoC) like the Qualcomm Snapdragon 750G integrates multiple essential components of a computer system onto a single microchip. For the Fairphone 4, this includes the central processing unit (CPU), graphics processing unit (GPU), modem (for cellular connectivity like 5G), memory controllers, and other vital functions, optimizing performance and power efficiency.

What is the purpose of offering different RAM and storage configurations for the Fairphone 4?

Offering different RAM (6GB or 8GB) and storage (128GB or 256GB) options allows consumers to choose a Fairphone 4 model that best suits their budget and usage needs. Higher RAM generally improves multitasking performance, while more storage provides space for apps, photos, and videos.

How does the Fairphone 4's USB-C port offer functionality beyond basic charging and data transfer?

The Fairphone 4's USB-C port supports advanced features like DisplayPort, enabling users to connect the phone to external monitors or displays for a larger viewing experience. It also supports USB On-The-Go (OTG), which allows the phone to act as a host, enabling it to connect to peripherals like keyboards, mice, or USB drives.

What does the term "OIS" refer to in the context of the Fairphone 4's rear camera?

OIS stands for Optical Image Stabilization. In the Fairphone 4's rear camera, this technology helps to counteract hand movements and vibrations, resulting in sharper, clearer photos and smoother videos, especially in low-light conditions or when shooting handheld.

What is the significance of the Fairphone 4's support for Android 13 and potential future updates?

Support for Android 13 and the promise of future updates (potentially including Android 14 and 15) signifies Fairphone's commitment to providing users with the latest software features and security patches for an extended period. This longevity is a key aspect of the phone's sustainable design philosophy, reducing the need for frequent device replacement.

What is the rationale behind Fairphone's decision to include recycled materials in the Fairphone 4?

Fairphone includes recycled materials in the Fairphone 4 to reduce the environmental impact associated with manufacturing new electronics. By utilizing recycled tin, plastics, and other components, the company decreases the demand for virgin resources, lowers carbon emissions, and helps mitigate the problem of electronic waste.

How does the Fairphone 4's design address the issue of planned obsolescence often seen in smartphones?

The Fairphone 4 actively combats planned obsolescence through several strategies: its modular design facilitates easy repairs, extending the device's usable life; long-term software support ensures the phone remains functional and secure for years; and the company's commitment to providing spare parts for an extended period further supports longevity, encouraging users to repair rather than replace their devices.

Fairphone 4 Wiki: Fairphone 4: Engineering Ethics, Built for Longevity

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Overview

The Fourth Generation

The Fairphone 4 represents the fourth iteration of Fairphone's commitment to creating more sustainable and ethically produced smartphones. Announced on September 30, 2021, and available for order from October 25, 2021, it succeeded the Fairphone 3+.^[4] This model introduced significant upgrades, including enhanced camera capabilities with optical image stabilization, a larger display, 5G connectivity, improved durability with IP54 dust and splash protection, and MIL810G certification.^[2]^[6]

Longevity and Support

A cornerstone of the Fairphone philosophy is longevity. The Fairphone 4 was launched with Android 11 and received promised major updates through Android 13. Fairphone pledged software support until 2026, aiming for extended OS upgrades and providing up to five years of warranty, underscoring a commitment to reducing electronic waste.^[7]^[8]

Ethical Foundation

Fairphone's mission extends beyond hardware. The company prioritizes fair labor practices and the responsible sourcing of materials. This includes using Fairtrade-certified gold, aluminum from certified vendors, fair tungsten, and recycled components like tin and plastics. This ethical framework is integral to the Fairphone 4's design and production.^[8]

Ethical Materials

Responsible Sourcing

The Fairphone 4 is constructed using a variety of responsibly sourced and recycled materials, reflecting the company's dedication to minimizing environmental impact and promoting fair labor conditions throughout the supply chain.

Fairtrade Gold: Ensures that gold is mined under fair working conditions and that miners receive fair prices.
Recycled Tin: Utilizes recycled tin, reducing the demand for newly mined materials.
Recycled Plastics: Incorporates recycled plastics, diverting waste from landfills and oceans.
Aluminum Stewardship Initiative (ASI): The aluminum used meets the ASI Performance Standard, indicating responsible production practices concerning environmental and social impacts.
Fair Tungsten: Sourced from Rwanda, supporting ethical mining practices in conflict-free regions.

This focus on material integrity is a key differentiator for Fairphone.

Circular Economy Principles

By prioritizing recycled and fair-trade materials, Fairphone actively participates in the principles of a circular economy. This approach aims to keep resources in use for as long as possible, extracting maximum value from them, then recovering and regenerating products and materials at the end of their service life. The Fairphone 4 exemplifies this by integrating recycled plastics and metals, thereby reducing reliance on virgin resources and minimizing waste generation.

Modular Design

Ease of Repair

The Fairphone 4 is engineered with a highly modular design, comprising seven distinct modules. This construction facilitates easier repair and component replacement compared to conventional smartphones. The rear cover can be removed without tools, allowing direct access to the battery, which can be easily lifted out and replaced. Standard Phillips #00 screwdrivers are sufficient for accessing and replacing other components like the display and internal modules.^[9]

Component Accessibility

This modularity extends to the accessibility of individual components. Users can purchase replacement parts directly from Fairphone, enabling them to repair their device rather than replace it. This approach not only extends the lifespan of the phone but also empowers users and reduces the environmental footprint associated with frequent device upgrades.

Key Specifications Overview

The Fairphone 4 integrates robust specifications within its repairable framework:

Feature	Specification
Brand	Fairphone
First Released	October 25, 2021
Form Factor	Slate
Dimensions	162 x 75.5 x 10.5 mm
Weight	225 g
Operating System	Android 11 (upgradable to 13)
Chipset	Qualcomm Snapdragon 750G
Memory	6 GB or 8 GB RAM
Storage	128 GB or 256 GB
Removable Storage	Micro SD up to 2 TB
SIM	Nano SIM and eSIM
Battery	Li-Ion 3905 mAh, 20W fast charging
Rear Camera	48 MP (wide, OIS) + 48 MP (ultrawide) + TOF 3D (depth)
Front Camera	25 MP
Display	IPS LCD 6.3", 1080 x 2340 pixels
Connectivity	USB-C 3.0 (DisplayPort, OTG), Miracast, Dual-band GNSS (GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou, Galileo)

Software and Updates

Operating System Support

The Fairphone 4 initially shipped with Android 11 ("Red Velvet Cake"). Fairphone has committed to providing extended software support, ensuring users receive updates beyond the typical device lifecycle. As of June 2023, the device has been updated to Android 13 ("Tiramisu"). The company aims to provide OS upgrades for Android 14 and potentially Android 15, extending the device's usability and security.^[10]

Alternative OS Options

Beyond the standard Fairphone OS, the Fairphone 4 is also supported by popular custom ROM communities, offering users greater choice and flexibility in their operating system. It is compatible with:

LineageOS: Enabling availability of Android 15 for the device.
CalyxOS: Version 4.2.7 (based on Android 13) was available as of December 2022.^[11]
/e/OS: This privacy-focused operating system also supports the Fairphone 4.

This broad software support enhances the device's longevity and adaptability.

Security Concerns

While Fairphone champions ethical practices, certain security aspects of the Fairphone 4 have drawn criticism. GrapheneOS highlighted that the device was initially shipped with publicly accessible private keys for its firmware and stock operating system. This compromised security features like verified boot and hardware keystore functionality. Furthermore, concerns were raised regarding the timeliness of firmware updates.^[15]

Reception and Critiques

Positive Aspects

The Fairphone 4 generally received positive reviews, particularly for its core mission and improvements over its predecessors. Key strengths highlighted by reviewers include:

Extended Software Support: The promise of software updates until 2026 and a potential five-year warranty were widely praised as significant benefits for device longevity.^[12]^[14]
Repairability: The modular design and ease of component replacement remain a major selling point, aligning with Fairphone's ethos.^[9]
Ethical Sourcing: The commitment to fair materials and labor practices continues to resonate positively with consumers seeking responsible technology choices.^[8]

Criticisms

Despite its strengths, the Fairphone 4 faced several criticisms:

Performance: Some reviewers noted occasional sluggish performance, suggesting the hardware might not always keep pace with demanding applications.^[12]
Camera Quality: While improved, the camera's performance was considered adequate but not class-leading compared to other smartphones in its price bracket.^[6]^[13]
Missing Headphone Jack: The removal of the 3.5mm headphone jack was a point of contention for users accustomed to wired audio connections.^[12]
Fingerprint Sensor: The fingerprint sensor's reliability or speed was occasionally cited as a minor drawback.^[12]

End of Sale

Product Lifecycle

Fairphone ceased production and sales of the Fairphone 4 in December 2024. However, the company emphasizes continued support for existing users. Software updates are expected to continue beyond the sales end date, and the availability of spare parts for repairs is guaranteed until at least 2028, reinforcing the commitment to device longevity and sustainability.^[5]

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References

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Important Notice

This page has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence system and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is derived from publicly available data, primarily the Wikipedia article on the Fairphone 4, and may not represent the most current or complete information available.

This is not professional advice. The information provided herein does not constitute technical, purchasing, or repair advice. Users should consult official Fairphone documentation and qualified professionals for specific guidance related to device operation, purchase decisions, or repair procedures. Reliance on the information presented here is solely at the user's own risk.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any inaccuracies, omissions, or consequences arising from the use of this information.

Fairphone 4

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Overview ℹ️

📱 The Fourth Generation

⏳ Longevity and Support

⚖️ Ethical Foundation

Ethical Materials 🌱

💎 Responsible Sourcing

♻️ Circular Economy Principles

Modular Design 🔧

🧩 Ease of Repair

🛠️ Component Accessibility

🔩 Key Specifications Overview

Software and Updates 💻

🚀 Operating System Support

🐧 Alternative OS Options

🔒 Security Concerns

Reception and Critiques 💬

👍 Positive Aspects

👎 Criticisms

End of Sale 🛑

🗓️ Product Lifecycle

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Overview

The Fourth Generation

Longevity and Support

Ethical Foundation

Ethical Materials

Responsible Sourcing

Circular Economy Principles

Modular Design

Ease of Repair

Component Accessibility

Key Specifications Overview

Software and Updates

Operating System Support

Alternative OS Options

Security Concerns

Reception and Critiques

Positive Aspects

Criticisms

End of Sale

Product Lifecycle

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice