Just a few weeks after a new variant of the Fairphone 6 surfaced online, fresh leaks have now given us our first real look at one of its color options. The so-called Fairphone 6+, which was previously spotted on a listing with upgraded specs, has now appeared in a series of leaked images showing a striking Cobalt Blue finish. The photos, shared by Dutch tech publication NieuweMobiel, offer a clear view of the device’s design and color, building excitement for what could be the next step in Fairphone’s modular smartphone lineup.
The original listing that broke the news about the Fairphone 6+ revealed a significant bump in memory and storage compared to the standard model. While the base Fairphone 6 comes with 8GB of RAM and 128GB or 256GB of storage, the 6+ is said to feature 12GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage. That’s a notable upgrade, especially for users who rely on their phone for multitasking, gaming, or running memory-hungry apps. The listing also mentioned three color choices: Cobalt Blue, Horizon Black, and Forest Green. Now, with these leaked images, we can finally see what the Cobalt Blue variant looks like in the wild.
A Closer Look at the Cobalt Blue Fairphone 6+
The leaked images show the Fairphone 6+ in a deep, vibrant blue that immediately catches the eye. Unlike the more subdued tones often found on mid-range devices, this Cobalt Blue finish appears to have a slight metallic sheen, giving it a premium feel. The back panel, which is replaceable in true Fairphone fashion, showcases the color prominently, while the camera module and other elements remain consistent with the design language of the original Fairphone 6.
From what we can see in the images, the phone retains the same overall shape and button placement as the Fairphone 6. The display, likely a 6.1-inch OLED panel, is visible on the front, though the images focus mainly on the rear. The blue hue is uniform across the back, with the Fairphone logo subtly placed in the center. It’s a clean, modern look that should appeal to those who want their phone to stand out without being too flashy.
What the Leaked Images Reveal
While the images don’t show every angle or detail, they confirm that the Cobalt Blue variant is indeed in the works. The photos appear to be marketing renders or early press shots, showing the device in a studio setting. This suggests that Fairphone may be preparing for an official announcement soon. The timing is interesting, given the current global chip shortage and supply chain challenges, but Fairphone has always been a company that marches to its own beat, focusing on sustainability and repairability over chasing the latest trends.
One thing that stands out in the leaked images is the texture of the back panel. It looks like it has a soft-touch finish, which would provide a good grip and resist fingerprints. This is a nice touch for a phone that’s designed to be opened and repaired by users. The camera module, which features a dual-lens setup, is housed in a slightly raised bump at the top left corner, similar to the Fairphone 6. The LED flash sits just beside the lenses, and the overall arrangement looks clean and functional.
Fairphone 6+: More Than Just a Color Change
Beyond the new color, the Fairphone 6+ is expected to offer some meaningful upgrades over the standard model. The most significant is the increase in RAM from 8GB to 12GB. This is a substantial jump that could make a real difference in performance, especially for users who keep many apps open or use their phone for productivity tasks. The 256GB of storage is also a welcome improvement, doubling the base storage of the original model.
But what else might the 6+ bring to the table? Based on the listing and the leaked images, it’s likely that the phone will feature the same Qualcomm Snapdragon 778G chipset as the Fairphone 6. That processor is already capable of handling most daily tasks with ease, and the extra RAM should help with smoother multitasking. The display is expected to remain the same, with a 6.1-inch OLED screen that offers vibrant colors and good brightness.
Why the Fairphone 6+ Matters
Fairphone has built its reputation on creating phones that are ethical and sustainable. The company uses recycled materials, ensures fair labor practices in its supply chain, and designs its devices to be easily repaired by users. The Fairphone 6+ continues this tradition, but the added RAM and storage make it a more compelling option for power users who might have previously overlooked the brand.
In a world where most smartphone manufacturers are pushing users to upgrade every year, Fairphone takes a different approach. The company offers software support for at least five years, and its modular design means you can replace a broken screen or battery without needing a new phone. The 6+ builds on this philosophy by offering more performance headroom, which could extend the device’s useful life even further.
What to Expect from the Fairphone 6+ Launch
While there’s no official release date yet, the leaked images suggest that an announcement could be imminent. Fairphone typically announces new models in the fall, and the timing of these leaks aligns with that pattern. The company might also use the 6+ to test the waters for a more premium offering, potentially setting the stage for a future flagship.
Pricing is still unknown, but based on the original Fairphone 6’s launch price of around €649, the 6+ could come in at a slightly higher price point, perhaps €699 or more. The increased RAM and storage will likely justify a modest price bump, and the new color options could add to the appeal.
Availability and Market Impact
Fairphone has a strong presence in Europe, particularly in the Netherlands, Germany, and the UK. The company also sells its phones in other markets through online retailers. The 6+ is expected to be available in the same regions, with pre-orders likely opening shortly after the official announcement.
The market impact of the 6+ could be significant, as it offers a unique combination of sustainability, repairability, and now, better performance. With the global push toward reducing e-waste, more consumers are looking for phones that last longer and can be repaired. The Fairphone 6+ fits that bill perfectly, and the addition of 12GB of RAM makes it a viable option for those who need a powerful device without compromising on ethics.
Comparing the Fairphone 6+ to the Competition
When you look at other phones in the same price range, the Fairphone 6+ stands out for its modular design and ethical credentials. The Samsung Galaxy A54 and the Google Pixel 7a are popular mid-range options, but they don’t offer the same level of repairability. The Fairphone 6+ also has a unique selling point in its software support, which is longer than most Android phones in this category.
The 12GB of RAM is also a differentiator. Many mid-range phones come with 6GB or 8GB, so the 6+ offers a performance boost that could appeal to gamers or heavy multitaskers. The 256GB storage is also generous, and it’s likely expandable via microSD, giving users even more flexibility.
Design and Build Quality
The Cobalt Blue color is just one of three options, but it’s likely to be the most popular. The Horizon Black is a classic choice, while Forest Green adds a natural touch that aligns with Fairphone’s eco-friendly image. All three colors are expected to feature the same durable, recycled plastic back panel that’s easy to remove and replace.
In terms of build quality, Fairphone has always been solid, and the 6+ should be no different. The phone is designed to withstand daily wear and tear, and the modular components are held together with screws that can be removed with a standard screwdriver. This makes it easy for users to replace parts like the battery, screen, or camera module, extending the phone’s lifespan significantly.
Final Thoughts on the Leaked Images
The leaked images of the Fairphone 6+ in Cobalt Blue give us a tantalizing glimpse of what’s to come. While we still don’t have official confirmation from Fairphone, the evidence is strong that a new model is on the horizon. The combination of 12GB RAM, 256GB storage, and a fresh color palette makes the 6+ an attractive upgrade for existing Fairphone users and a compelling entry point for new ones.
If you’re in the market for a phone that’s good for the planet and good for your productivity, the Fairphone 6+ is worth keeping an eye on. The leaked images suggest that Fairphone is listening to its community and delivering a device that balances performance with purpose. We’ll be sure to bring you more details as soon as they become official.
