Fairphone has returned with a refreshed version of its modular, eco-conscious wireless headphones—and in true Fairphone fashion, this “new” model also doubles as an upgrade path for owners of the previous generation. The second-generation Fairbuds XL introduce several welcome quality-of-life improvements to the company’s sustainable, repair-friendly design philosophy, but the star of the show is arguably the addition of brand-new audio drivers.
This time around, Fairphone has equipped the Fairbuds XL with dynamic 40mm drivers and a revised tuning profile that the company says should noticeably enhance overall sound quality. Perhaps the most exciting part isn’t just the improved audio, but the fact that—thanks to the modular architecture—Fairphone is also selling these upgraded drivers separately. That means owners of the original 2023 Fairbuds XL can pop open their old pair and install the new components themselves. If you ever needed proof that modular hardware pays off, this is it. The drivers will be sold individually for 61.95 euros (around $72) for the left unit and 39.95 euros (around $46) for the right. According to The Verge, U.S. availability isn’t expected until 2026, but they’ll be available sooner in Europe.
Beyond the improved sound hardware, the second-gen Fairbuds XL also sport new fabric coverings on both the headband and earcups. Fairphone says the updated materials offer better breathability and greater durability, making the headphones more comfortable for long listening sessions. There’s also a new automatic shut-off feature that powers the headphones down after 30 minutes of inactivity when active noise cancellation (ANC) is switched off—a small but thoughtful addition for preserving battery life.
True to Fairphone’s ethos, the new model remains fully compatible with the original one. Any replaceable component—headband, earcups, battery, drivers, internal modules—can be swapped between generations. For users, that means fewer electronic devices ending up in landfills and more flexibility in extending the life of their gear.
Fairphone is also pushing its sustainability efforts even further. This time, the company says it’s using 100% recycled rare-earth metals for the magnets inside the audio drivers and is relying entirely on renewable energy throughout the assembly process. And of course, updated aesthetics are part of the package: the new Fairbuds XL come in Forest Green and Horizon Black, which are essentially refreshed takes on the classic green and black finishes from the previous generation—though the subtle shift in color may only be noticeable to more observant eyes than mine.
Many of the previous generation’s strengths return untouched. The battery remains user-replaceable and still offers up to 30 hours of playtime with ANC enabled. You’ll find the familiar USB-C port, the signature joystick-style control nub, and the same IP54 rating, meaning they can shrug off light rain and sweat. While a larger battery would have been a nice upgrade, it’s difficult to complain when the headphones already offer so much modularity and repairability in a single package.
The new Fairbuds XL launch globally today at the same price as the original—249 euros (roughly $290)—which is particularly welcome given that the first model took years to officially reach the U.S. market. If you’re someone who values repairability, sustainability, or simply wants tech designed to last rather than be thrown away, the Fairbuds XL continue to be one of the few truly user-friendly wireless headphone options out there.