Highlights

• Custom design for disassembly, ensuring even novices can replace parts effortlessly.
• Intensive collaboration with the Fairphone team, resulting in a high-intensity project that pushed boundaries.
• Material choices prioritizing durability and sustainability.

Challenge

Prioritise design drivers while navigating this intense project intelligently.

Making design choices that were not only innovative but also practical for users. We had to strike a balance between giving the product a unique identity while ensuring its appeal to a broad audience and that nothing was sacrificed in production. And most importantly, we set out to redefine modularity in headphones, a challenge that allowed us to explore new systems and ultimately led to nine easily replaceable user components.

01

Redesigning modularity, crafting simplicity

When we embarked on the journey to create the Fairphone Fairbuds XL, we faced a monumental challenge: redefining the concept of modularity in Bluetooth headphones. There were scant references on how a modular Bluetooth headphone should look and function. This presented us with a unique opportunity for exploration and innovation. Ultimately, our design journey led us to the creation of nine distinct components that can be effortlessly replaced by users.

02

Complexity in Simplicity

Our goal was to make these headphones repairable for absolutely everyone. To achieve this, we integrated ingenious systems into the design. We examined the parts that were going to be replaced most frequently and designed them to be most easily accessible. For instance, the speaker units are connected using a standard USB-C cable, ensuring ease of replacement. The battery is readily accessible without the need for a screwdriver, and a simple twist allows users to replace the ear cushions. These seemingly simple features represent the complexity of thoughtful design, making the Fairbuds XL user-friendly without compromising on innovation.

Impact

Durability equals sustainability

At Studio Dott, we understand that durability equates to sustainability. A product that is well-crafted lasts longer, reducing its environmental impact. By combining sustainable material choices with a focus on durability in the design, we've ensured that the Fairbuds XL are built to last a lifetime. In a world where disposable electronics are the norm, we've created a headphone that defies convention, prioritizing repairability, sustainability, and innovation. We are happy to have helped Fairphone on their mission and are still helping them today designing products for the future.

^{“In a world where disposable electronics are the norm, we've created a headphone that defies convention, prioritizing repairability, sustainability, and innovation. We’re looking forward to continue the journey of Fairphone."}_{- Pieter Lesage}

Awards

Henry van de Velde Gold Winner

With the right choice of materials, modular construction and connection techniques, Fairbuds XL offers an excellent starting point to repair the device if needed. This greatly extends the potential lifespan of these headphones. The jury sees this as the consumer product of the future.

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IF Gold award

The Fairbuds XL are modular, noise-cancelling headphones. They are designed to last. Thanks to the modular construction and spare parts, anyone can make repairs, such as changing the battery, ear cushions or headband when they wear out over time.

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