Radboud University selects Fairphone as standard smartphone for employees
Recorded: Jan. 19, 2026, 10:03 a.m.
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Radboud University selects Fairphone as standard smartphone for employees | Radboud University Skip to main content NLEN Search Clear all Breadcrumb Home Staff News for staff Radboud University selects Fairphone as standard smartphone for employees Radboud University selects Fairphone as standard smartphone for employees 16 January 2026 Do you require a (replacement) smartphone for your work at Radboud University? If so, there is a strong possibility that you will receive a Fairphone from 1 February 2026 onwards. Radboud University has decided to choose Fairphone as its standard company smartphone model for reasons of sustainability, cost efficiency and management support. The Fairphone is a sustainable smartphone with easily replaceable parts such as the battery and screen. This makes the device last longer. Fair and recycled materials, such as plastic and aluminium, are used as much as possible in the production of this smartphone. Fairphone also pays attention to good and safe working conditions in its factories.Fairphones are issued to employees by the Information & Library Services (ILS) division. In addition to new Fairphones, the university can also reissue used Samsung devices where possible. These are Samsung devices that have already been returned and still meet the technical and age requirements. As long as these devices are still available, not every employee will receive a Fairphone immediately. Employees who have an iPhone from Radboud University can continue to use it as long as the device is still functioning. However, returned iPhones will no longer be reissued.Employees who prefer to use their private phone for work can request an RU SIM card for this purpose. The costs for using your own device will not be reimbursed. Naturally, smartphone models that have already been issued will continue to be supported by ILS colleagues, as will privately purchased smartphone models used for work.Cost-effective and easier managementDue to its longer lifespan, the total cost of a Fairphone is lower than that of comparable devices. In addition, Radboud University only needs to purchase, manage and support one standard model. This results in smaller stock, easier management and faster support. Manuals and instructions also only need to be maintained for one device.Furthermore, less investment is required in knowledge of different models/brands. This also helps to speed up incident handling and, where necessary, smartphone replacement.Circularity strategyFairphone offers a five-year warranty and long-term software support for up to eight years. This means that devices need to be replaced less quickly. This fits in with Radboud University's circularity strategy, which focuses on the longest possible use and reuse of ICT hardware. Share this page Mastodon See other news Telephony As an employee at Radboud University you can use desk and/or mobile telephones. If you have questions about the options at your faculty or department, you can contact your telephone coordinator.
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Radboud University has made a strategic decision to adopt Fairphone as the standard smartphone model for its employees, effective from 1 February 2026. This move is part of a broader initiative aimed at enhancing sustainability, improving cost efficiency, and streamlining management processes. The university’s Information & Library Services (ILS) division will be responsible for issuing these devices, which are designed with environmental and operational considerations in mind. The Fairphone’s modular construction allows for easy replacement of components such as the battery and screen, significantly extending its lifespan compared to conventional smartphones. This design philosophy aligns with Radboud University’s commitment to reducing electronic waste and promoting a circular economy. Additionally, the device incorporates recycled materials, including plastics and aluminum, while ensuring that production facilities adhere to fair labor practices. These features position the Fairphone as a sustainable alternative to mainstream brands, addressing both ecological concerns and ethical sourcing issues. The university’s decision also reflects a practical approach to managing IT infrastructure, as the standardized model simplifies procurement, maintenance, and technical support. By limiting the number of smartphone models in use, Radboud University aims to reduce administrative complexity and lower overall costs. This strategy is further supported by the Fairphone’s extended warranty period of five years and long-term software updates spanning up to eight years, which minimize the frequency of device replacements. The circularity strategy underpinning this choice emphasizes maximizing the lifespan of ICT hardware, ensuring that devices remain functional and relevant for as long as possible. The transition to Fairphones will not be immediate for all employees, as the university plans to reissue previously returned Samsung devices that still meet technical and age criteria. This approach allows for the reuse of existing hardware, further supporting sustainability goals while managing resource allocation efficiently. However, not every employee will receive a Fairphone right away; the availability of reissued Samsung devices will determine the pace of implementation. Employees currently using iPhones provided by Radboud University will be able to continue doing so as long as the devices remain operational. However, returned iPhones will no longer be reissued, signaling a shift away from Apple products in favor of the Fairphone. This policy underscores the university’s focus on standardization and long-term cost savings, as managing a single device type reduces the need for specialized training and support. For employees who prefer to use personal smartphones for work purposes, the university offers an alternative: a RU SIM card that enables access to institutional services. While this option allows for greater flexibility, it is important to note that the university will not reimburse any costs associated with personal devices. This distinction highlights the institution’s commitment to balancing employee convenience with financial responsibility, ensuring that resources are allocated efficiently without subsidizing private technology use. From a financial perspective, the Fairphone’s longer lifespan and reduced replacement frequency directly contribute to lower total cost of ownership. By minimizing the need for frequent purchases, Radboud University can allocate budgetary resources more effectively, prioritizing investments in other areas of academic and operational support. The streamlined management process also reduces the administrative burden on ILS staff, as they will only need to maintain documentation and support for a single device model. This simplification not only enhances efficiency but also accelerates incident resolution, as technical issues can be addressed with standardized procedures. Furthermore, the reduced diversity of smartphone models lessens the demand for specialized knowledge among IT personnel, enabling them to focus on broader systemic improvements. The university’s decision to standardize on the Fairphone thus creates a dual benefit: it lowers costs while improving operational agility. This approach is particularly relevant in an era where institutions face increasing pressure to justify expenditures and optimize resource utilization. By adopting a device that aligns with both financial and environmental objectives, Radboud University is setting a precedent for how educational institutions can integrate sustainability into their core operations. The circularity strategy underpinning the Fairphone adoption is a key component of Radboud University’s broader sustainability efforts. The emphasis on longevity and reuse reflects a shift away from the traditional linear model of consumption, where products are used briefly before being discarded. Instead, the university is prioritizing a circular economy approach that extends product lifecycles and maximizes resource efficiency. This philosophy is evident in the Fairphone’s design, which facilitates repairs and upgrades, as well as its commitment to responsible end-of-life management. The device’s long-term software support ensures that it remains compatible with evolving digital platforms, reducing the need for premature replacements. By aligning its procurement policies with these principles, Radboud University is not only reducing its environmental footprint but also fostering a culture of responsibility and innovation. The decision to phase out iPhones, which are known for their limited repairability and shorter software support cycles, further reinforces this commitment. While existing iPhone users will not be immediately affected, the transition to a standardized model signals a long-term shift in how the university approaches technology acquisition. This move is part of a larger trend among organizations seeking to mitigate the environmental impact of their operations while maintaining high standards of functionality and user experience. In addition to its sustainability and cost-saving benefits, the Fairphone adoption also addresses broader concerns about supply chain ethics. The production of conventional smartphones often involves complex global supply chains that can be associated with exploitative labor practices and environmental degradation. By choosing Fairphone, Radboud University is supporting a company that prioritizes transparency and accountability in its manufacturing processes. Fairphone’s emphasis on fair wages, safe working conditions, and ethical sourcing aligns with the university’s values of social responsibility and corporate accountability. This decision resonates with a growing awareness among institutions and consumers about the ethical implications of technology consumption. By partnering with a company that actively works to improve labor conditions and reduce environmental harm, Radboud University is demonstrating its commitment to fostering a more equitable and sustainable future. The university’s choice also sends a clear message to other organizations about the importance of aligning procurement decisions with ethical and environmental principles. The implementation of this policy also involves addressing potential challenges related to user adaptation and technical support. While the Fairphone offers a range of features that cater to both sustainability and functionality, employees may need time to familiarize themselves with its interface and capabilities. To facilitate this transition, the ILS division will likely provide training sessions or documentation to ensure that employees can use the device effectively. Additionally, the university will continue to support existing smartphones, whether they are privately owned or previously issued by the institution. This continued support is crucial for maintaining continuity and minimizing disruptions to work processes. The ILS team will also need to monitor the performance of Fairphones and address any issues that arise, ensuring that employees have reliable access to the tools they need. By proactively managing this transition, Radboud University can mitigate potential obstacles and ensure a smooth adoption of the new standard. The broader implications of this decision extend beyond Radboud University, offering a model for other institutions and organizations looking to balance environmental responsibility with operational efficiency. The university’s approach highlights the importance of considering the full lifecycle of technology, from production to disposal, when making procurement decisions. By prioritizing devices that are designed for repairability, longevity, and ethical production, institutions can reduce their environmental impact while also achieving cost savings. This model is particularly relevant in the context of higher education, where universities often serve as both consumers and innovators in sustainable practices. Radboud University’s commitment to circularity and ethical sourcing sets a standard for how educational institutions can integrate sustainability into their operations without compromising functionality or user experience. Ultimately, the decision to adopt Fairphone as the standard smartphone reflects a holistic approach to technology management that considers environmental, financial, and ethical dimensions. By choosing a device that aligns with its sustainability goals while also offering practical benefits, Radboud University is demonstrating how institutions can lead by example in addressing global challenges. The transition to Fairphones not only supports the university’s internal operations but also contributes to a broader movement toward responsible technology consumption. As more organizations recognize the importance of sustainable practices, Radboud University’s initiative serves as a valuable case study in how to balance innovation with accountability. Through this decision, the university is not only investing in its employees’ needs but also reinforcing its commitment to creating a more sustainable and equitable future. |