More than two years after Fairphone introduced its first pair of modular and repairable wireless headphones, the company has announced an upgraded version. The new Fairbuds XL look similar to the original but feature an updated design with more comfortable clothing and better sound due to the new drivers. The most interesting thing about these is that due to Fairphone’s commitment to modular hardware, some of the improvements are backward-compatible. This way, owners of the first-generation Fairbuds XL can upgrade with better sound without having to replace them entirely.
The new Fairbuds XL are launching with an updated and sleek design, which now uses breathable mesh fabric on the headband and ear cushions, which Fairphone says “enhances comfort during long listening periods.” Features like IP54 dust and water resistance, a USB-C charging port, a dedicated ANC button, and a small joystick to control playback and volume have been carried over, while the two color options, now called Forest Green and Horizon Black, have been deepened to give the Fairbuds XL a more premium look.
Fairphone says the new headphones have better sound due to “new 40 millimeter dynamic drivers” and “sophisticated audio tuning,” but Bluetooth connectivity is limited to AAC, SBC, and aptX HD. The battery is still replaceable along with eight other modular components that can be replaced to extend the life of the headphones, but battery life is still just over 30 hours, which is reduced if you’re using ANC.
It took more than two years for the original FireBuds XL to become available in the US, but this time the wait won’t be that long. The new Fairbuds XL are available globally from today on Fairphone’s online store for the same price as the original and are expected to launch later this month in the US via Amazon for $229.
Fairphone is selling the new driver units for €61.95 (left) and €39.95 (right) for those looking to upgrade to the original BudsBuds XL, but those components are also available as part of a discounted bundle that also includes ear cushions and speaker covers. However, considering the original launched in the US just last month, Fairphone won’t be selling new spare parts there until late 2026.
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