Starting 1 February 2026, Radboud University will issue Fairphones as standard work smartphones. The decision emphasizes sustainability, cost efficiency, and streamlined device management. Fairphone’s modular design supports longer use and easier repairs.

The university’s shift aligns with its broader circularity strategy. By standardizing on one model, Radboud reduces procurement complexity and support overhead. Employees benefit from consistent software updates and hardware reliability over time.

Used Samsung devices may still be distributed while available. Staff can also use personal phones with an RU SIM card, though reimbursement for private devices is not offered. This move reflects growing institutional interest in ethical tech sourcing.

Fairphone’s five-year warranty and eight-year software support reduce replacement cycles. For Radboud, this means fewer devices purchased and less e-waste generated. Other academic institutions may follow suit in adopting sustainable hardware policies.