GrapheneOS makers take a knife to this ‘Google-free’ phone coming to the US (Updated)

GrapheneOS makers take a knife to this ‘Google-free’ phone coming to the US (Updated)

Fairphone Gen 6 in hand

Credit: Paul Jones / Android Authority
  • The team behind the GrapheneOS platform has criticized the Fairphone Gen 6 for apparent security issues.
  • The team added that the Fairphone model sold in the US lacks “bare minimum” privacy and security protections.
  • Even the standard Fairphone Gen 6 was criticized for delayed software patches and the lack of a secure element.

Update, July 18, 2025 (04:40 PM ET): We have just heard back from Fairphone in response to our inquiry. In a statement, the company explains:

Fairphone and Murena have a strong, proud partnership that offers many users around the world a secure, sustainable, and modular smartphone alternative – with a clear focus on longevity and lasting value. We’re committed to delivering operating systems that meet market-standard security expectations. While we respect that there are different approaches to mobile security, ours is rooted in following recognized standards like Android Enterprise Recommended (AER) and in pushing the industry forward by raising the bar on longevity.