Dutch start-up Fairphone has finally met its goal of 5000
pre-orders for its new smartphone that is supposed to be constructed from
conflict-free materials.
The first FairPhone has dual-SIM capability for GSM
networks, a 4.3-inch screen, 8MP camera, 16GB of on-board storage and a
removable battery. According to the company, the phone is designed to be
radically repairable and even encourages users to disassemble it. The phone
will run a basic version of Android 4.2 Jelly Bean by default but owners are
said to be able to opt for other operating systems.
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The FairPhone isn’t really a revolutionary device in terms
of specifications or design but its appeal and value lies in the company’s
attempt to disrupt the electronics industry by raising awareness to some of the
industry’s questionable practices. At present, the Fairphone is still available
for pre order on the company’s website for around $458 until June 14 where
Fairphone will officially end the campaign in Amsterdam.
The company is now pushing for a 20,000 production run with
the phone scheduled to be commercially available by October within Europe.
