Hi all, I recently got the FP6, and even more recently (about 3 weeks ago) started using it.
Today, for no apparent reason, the buttons in the protective case, those that cover the volume buttons, fell off of the case. They so neatly separated, that it seems intentional, but now the buttons are not really accessible (I need to use a fingernail to push them), so I can’t see how this would be an intentional feature?
Has anyone else experienced this, or is my case defective? If the former, did you find a way to keep the buttons in place? (Assuming I can even find both of them - I think one of them fell off in the street)
This should be a clear warranty case. You can contact Support and they will most likely replace the whole case.
You might want to try applying a (strongly) sticky tape cut to fit into the case’s slim inside wall (where the buttons were) and see if inserting/pressing the buttons back into the holes from the outside (while the phone is inside the case again) is enough to make the tape’s glue hold them in place.
It’s a pity that those keys fall off and since they are small enough they get lost - a bit more plastic in the environment. And it’s a pity that the replacement is a complete case with basically the same issues. If you have access to a 3D printer (or to a person who has one) it’s a rather small and quick task to 3D-print the buttons:
The FP6 in our household has the buttons replaced by 3D printed ones and so far they are still there and just work (and you can give your case a personal touch by choosing a different colour, too).
Those buttons are designed this way. They are not connected directly to the rest of the case. I discovered it when I cleaned my FP6 case. You can just pop them back in
I have the same problem with the +volume button. I think it happened when I put my phone into my left trouser pocket. I think I will go for warranty, too.
Maybe somebody could print off a batch and sell them. Seems daft to replace the whole case, and I’d rather live with the inconvenience of the missing button than get a whole new one.
I had that problem too; as I use those buttons a lot, I sent the case back and got my money back. Now I’ve bought a silicone case for 10 euros. It’s perfect.
Thanks everyone! I did indeed contacted Fairphone who agreed that it was a faulty case and sent me a new one. Which is exactly the same…
But now that I know the buttons are not properly attached I’ll be more careful if and when I take the case off.
I really liked the idea of 3D printing extra buttons. For now I have the one backup button (since I lost one), but if I ever end up using it, I will certainly look for the option of printing more backups!
I am actually glad that the volume buttons are designed to basically just stay in place. Because I actually want to take them out! I couldn’t get the phone out of the pocket on my trousers anymore; the buttons were holding the phone in place. Now that I’ve taken them out, that problem is over. Ideal. I also don’t press the ‘down button’ anymore when I want to turn off the phone with the button on the right.
Seems daft to replace the whole case, and I’d rather live with the inconvenience of the missing button than get a whole new one.