More than two years after Fairphone first entered the audio market with its debut pair of modular, repairable wireless headphones, the ethically minded technology company has now introduced a significantly enhanced successor. This new iteration, appropriately named the Fairbuds XL, maintains the recognizable aesthetic of the original model yet offers a distinct evolution in both form and function. Among the most noteworthy refinements are a redesigned exterior built with softer, more breathable materials and the inclusion of upgraded acoustic drivers that collectively produce a richer and more balanced sound profile. However, perhaps the most remarkable aspect of this release lies in Fairphone’s continued dedication to modularity—an ethos that allows select new hardware improvements to remain compatible with previous versions. As a result, early adopters of the first-generation Fairbuds XL have the valuable opportunity to modernize their existing headphones by installing the new components, thereby enhancing performance without the waste or expense of a full replacement.
With this release, Fairphone introduces a sleeker, more ergonomically refined design language. The updated model now incorporates breathable mesh fabrics along the headband and ear cushions—an intentional upgrade aimed at ensuring enhanced comfort during extended periods of listening. This subtle but meaningful change prevents heat buildup and provides a softer touch against the skin, making the headphones more inviting for marathon listening sessions. The company has also retained the practical features that helped define the original model’s appeal, including IP54 certification for dust and water resistance, a USB-C port for quick recharging, a dedicated active noise cancellation (ANC) button, and a miniature joystick that intuitively manages playback and volume adjustments. Furthermore, Fairphone has revisited its approach to color and finish, deepening the tones of its two signature styles, now known as Forest Green and Horizon Black, to lend the new Fairbuds XL a more mature and premium appearance that aligns with the company’s growing design sophistication.
According to Fairphone, the latest version offers a noticeable enhancement in acoustic fidelity, powered by newly developed 40‑millimeter dynamic drivers paired with refined audio tuning. Together, these upgrades contribute to clearer mids, more detailed highs, and a soundstage that delivers improved overall definition. Nevertheless, Bluetooth codec support remains identical to the previous generation, with compatibility limited to AAC, SBC, and aptX HD. In keeping with Fairphone’s long-standing commitment to sustainability and user repairability, the battery continues to be replaceable, along with eight other modular elements that users can easily swap out to extend the life cycle of the product. Despite these physical and functional improvements, the Fairbuds XL retain a maximum battery life of 30 hours on a single charge, a duration that decreases slightly when the ANC feature is activated.
One of the most notable differences from the first Fairbuds XL release cycle is availability. While the original version required a wait of over two years before it officially reached the United States market, Fairphone has dramatically shortened the waiting period this time. Starting today, the new Fairbuds XL are launching globally through Fairphone’s official online store at the same retail price as their predecessor. For US-based customers, the company anticipates availability through Amazon later in the month at a price of $229, signaling a quicker and more coordinated international rollout.
True to its philosophy of repairability, Fairphone is also offering the newly engineered driver units as standalone upgrade parts for existing users. Priced at €61.95 for the left unit and €39.95 for the right, these components can be purchased individually or as part of a discounted bundle that includes fresh ear cushions and durable speaker covers—an arrangement that supports both affordability and environmental responsibility. However, given that the first-generation Fairbuds XL only recently debuted in the United States, Fairphone has chosen to delay the sale of these new spare components in that region until later in 2026. This careful rollout plan underscores Fairphone’s methodical approach to logistics while maintaining its promise to empower users around the world with products that are not only built to last but built to evolve.
Sourse: https://www.theverge.com/news/839481/fairphone-xl-wireless-headphones-repairable-modular
