Summary of "Fairphone 6 /e/OS Murena Review - Quirks, Quirks, Quirks"

Summary of Fairphone 6 /e/OS Murena Review - Quirks, Quirks, Quirks

Overview

The video provides an in-depth review of the Fairphone 6 running /e/OS Murena (EOS) software, focusing on the phone’s unique privacy-centric features, user experience quirks, and whether it justifies its $900 price point. The reviewer reflects on the importance of data privacy and how this phone/software combination aims to offer an alternative to Google and Apple ecosystems.

Key Technological Concepts & Features

Privacy Focus & Philosophy

EOS aims to reduce user tracking and data profiling common in Google/Apple ecosystems.
The phone blocks trackers and scrambles geolocation and IP addresses to protect user anonymity.
Uses MicroG services pre-installed for Google-related app compatibility without full Google services.
Incorporates advanced privacy features like blocking app trackers (596 leaks blocked during testing).
Fake geolocation feature lets users choose plausible or specific fake GPS locations.
IP scrambling uses the Tor network (not a traditional VPN) to anonymize internet traffic, with some speed trade-offs.

Software Ecosystem

EOS provides a full suite of native apps (email, calendar, notes, cloud storage, calculator) similar to Apple’s ecosystem but without Google.
Native apps cannot be deleted, which feels like bloatware but are essential for privacy.
App Lounge allows anonymous app downloads without mandatory login.
Search bar integrated in swipe-down menu uses Qwant (a privacy-focused search engine).
Quick settings accessed by swiping down from the top, differing from typical Android behavior.
Battery percentage and status bar customization require navigating deep system settings.
MicroG handles Google account logins and sync for apps like Gmail and Google Calendar.

Hardware & Usability Quirks

Power button placement can cause accidental screenshots.
Volume rocker can be configured to wake the phone.
Phone call data usage severely slows down internet access on cellular (not Wi-Fi), making multitasking during calls frustrating.
Weather widget is non-interactive; a separate weather app must be installed for detailed info.
Camera app interface is basic and somewhat buggy:
- Limited zoom options (1x and ultra-wide only).
- Video recording quality and audio are poor.
- Auto-dimming bug causes screen blackout in bright sunlight during video recording.
Some popular apps like ChatGPT and Google Wallet do not work on EOS.
Banking apps (PayPal, Chase) and some international apps (car sharing, mobility) function well.

Performance & Comparisons

The reviewer compares Fairphone 6 with EOS vs. Fairphone 6 with Google Suite, noting similar camera quality but better user experience on Google Suite.
Internet speed is generally good except during phone calls.
The phone’s modular design and accessible battery are praised for sustainability and repairability.

Analysis & Recommendations

Pros

Strong privacy protections and user control over data.
Unique ability to block trackers and spoof location/IP.
Fully open-source ecosystem alternative to Google/Apple.
Sustainable hardware with ethical supply chain.
Good compatibility with essential apps like banking.

Cons

Pricey at around $900.
Some apps (ChatGPT, Google Wallet) incompatible.
Slow internet during calls is a major usability issue.
Camera and video quality/interface are underwhelming.
Software quirks and bugs (persistent jiggle mode, weather widget behavior, screen dimming in sunlight).
Native apps cannot be deleted, which may feel like bloatware.
Requires patience as the OS is still evolving with bugs to be fixed.

Who Should Consider It

Users prioritizing privacy and data control over seamless app compatibility.
Those interested in breaking free from Google/Apple ecosystems.
Users willing to tolerate some quirks and bugs for ethical and privacy benefits.
Not recommended for users who need flawless camera/video or rely heavily on Google-dependent apps.

Final Thoughts

The phone is a thoughtful and rare offering in the privacy-focused smartphone market. The reviewer appreciates the concept and ongoing community engagement by Fairphone. Suggests waiting for future updates to smooth out current bugs. Encourages viewers to weigh personal priorities (privacy vs. convenience) when deciding.

Main Speaker / Source

The review is presented by an individual tech reviewer who shares personal experiences, impressions, and technical insights with the Fairphone 6 running /e/OS Murena.
The speaker is not named in the transcript but appears knowledgeable about privacy and open-source mobile ecosystems.
The review includes hands-on testing, comparisons, and detailed observations of hardware and software behavior.