Smartphones
European smartphone manufacturers focus on durable, repairable devices. Production and supply chains remain within Europe.
Software support and repairability comparison
Apple and Samsung typically offer between 3 and 5 years of software updates according to their own statements. Fairphone states a support period of 10 years. Longer support extends the usable lifespan, reduces raw material consumption and lowers e-waste. European manufacturers additionally use modular designs that allow component-level repair.
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All Alternatives in Detail
European smartphone models with modular designs and long software support periods.
Fairphone
Modular smartphone with 10-year software update guarantee
- 10 years of software support guaranteed
- Self-repairable, all modules replaceable
- Fairtrade Gold and conflict-free minerals
- Modular design: battery, display, camera individually replaceable
HMD / Nokia
Android smartphones with Scandinavian design
- Clean Android without bloatware
- 3 years of OS updates, 4 years of security updates
- Entry-level available from 99 €
- Robust build quality, durable
Shiftphone
Repairable smartphones developed in Germany
- Fully modular and repairable
- Long-term spare parts supply guaranteed
- Produced in Germany and Asia
- Android without Google services possible
Murena / /e/OS
Privacy-focused smartphones running /e/OS
- Android without Google tracking and services
- Privacy score for all installed apps
- Own cloud ecosystem (Murena Cloud)
- Installable on many Samsung/Pixel devices
Volla Phone
Privacy-oriented Android smartphone from Germany
- Volla OS: Android without Google services and telemetry
- Optional Ubuntu Touch support
- Replaceable battery and IP68 certification (Plinius series)
- Developed and partially produced in Germany
Sustainability Comparison
| Device | Origin | Software Support | Repairable | From |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fairphone 6 | Netherlands | 10 Years | Fully Modular | €599 |
| HMD / Nokia | Finland | 4 Years Security | Standard | from €99 |
| Shiftphone | Germany | Long-term | Modular | from €499 |
| Murena | France | Community Support | Standard | from €349 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What sustainability features does Fairphone offer?
Fairphone uses Fairtrade-certified and recycled materials, offers 10 years of software support, and allows complete self-repair. This extends the device lifespan and reduces e-waste and CO₂ emissions over time.
Can I use all apps with a Fairphone?
Fairphone runs standard Android (Google) and supports all apps from the Play Store. There is also a version with /e/OS without Google services for users who want more control over their data.
What is /e/OS?
/e/OS is an Android fork without Google services, developed by Murena. Instead of Google apps, it uses privacy-friendly alternatives. Some banking apps may not work.
What are the differences between European smartphones and iPhone or Samsung?
Fairphone, Nokia, and Shiftphone offer standard Android functionality. Apple and Samsung flagships typically use cameras and housing materials from higher price segments. Fairphone and Shiftphone are modular and allow component-level repair.