Framework passes the second by announcing major developments on its first laptop, including the ability to choose an Intel or AMD CPU. The very young PC manufacturer also announces the Laptop 16, which goes even further in terms of modularity.
Framework Laptop 13 // Source: Framework
As a reminder, the Framework laptop is surprisingly easy to put together and fun to customize. This PC is designed to be upgradeable and durable at the same time, so you can buy and replace almost every single component if one stops working properly or if you want to upgrade specific parts. After unboxing and assembling the Framework laptop and then testing the machine, we even upgraded its CPU to a 12th Gen Intel Core CPU.
While Framework’s modular laptops are not yet widely available, they have garnered a lot of interest in the industry. The company continues its development by offering regular updates to improve its offer. Today Framework announces several novelties.
Improvements for the laptop 13
As a first innovation Framework announced the integration of processors 13th Gen Intel Core and AMD Ryzen processors (Ryzen 7040 in Ryzen 5 or Ryzen 7) in its laptop 13. Users can choose between the two brands, which responds to one of the reviews of the first users. Although Framework promises similar prices between Intel and AMD, the port configuration will be different. This is because Intel cards support Thunderbolt 4 throughout, while the AMD model offers two USB 4.0 ports, one USB 3.2 with DisplayPort, and one regular USB 3.2 port.
Framework Laptop 13 // Source: Framework
If you want to switch from Intel to AMD, you have to buy the mainboard package with CPU. But that’s not all: it will also require new RAM (DDR5-5600 instead of DDR4) and a new Wi-Fi card. However, these AMD chips combine a Zen 4 CPU and an integrated GPU with the latest generation of the RDNA 3 architecture. which should give the Framework Laptop 13 a noticeable boost in graphics performance.
Framework Laptop 13 // Source: Framework
The American manufacturer also presented a new battery with a capacity of 61 Wh (only on the Core i7 and Ryzen 7 versions), accompanied by firmware updates intended to increase the autonomy of its laptops by 20-30%. Framework meets the needs of its customers by offering a matte screen instead of a glossy one. In addition, according to the Framework, the speakers are now more powerful with a total of 80 dB and with better audio quality.
Framework takes the opportunity to offer official support for two new GNU/Linux distributions, Fedora 38 and Ubuntu 22.04. As a reminder, there is also a framework that comes with Chrome OS.
The Cooler Master Case // Source: Framework
You can also buy a Cooler Master case (45 euros) to give a second life to your old CPU motherboard. Until now, you had to 3D print a compatible box. This box is compact (297mm x 133mm x 14.9mm), you can of course use the expansion cards on the USB4.
A 16-inch format that goes even further when it comes to customization
The Framework Laptop 16 is a laptop that complements the range of products offered. As the name suggests, it features a 16-inch screen, thus offering users a larger viewing area. Just like its predecessor, the Framework Laptop 13, the Framework Laptop 16 is characterized by its modularity and sustainable approach.
Framework Laptop 16 // Source: Framework
The Framework Laptop 16 is built around three key elements: an input module system, an expansion bay system, and the Framework expansion card system.
The Laptop 16 features a user-replaceable modular keyboard composed of various modules of different sizes (small, medium, and large) developed by Framework. Small modules are designed for specific functions, such as B. Color adjustments or haptic systems. Middle modules can contain number pads or even a secondary screen. Large modules can be full keyboards adding RGB keys to the machine (for those who like that).
Framework Laptop 16 // Source: Framework
These modules are all hot-swappable and work with a Raspberry Pi RP2040 microcontroller. Framework has announced its goal of opening up microcontroller firmware to allow developers to create their own modules. As long as it stays within the height limit of 3.7 mm, you can put together your desired module. Everything is possible.
Framework Laptop 16 // Source: Framework
Perhaps the highlight of the Framework Laptop 16 is its expansion bay system. It is a configurable PCIe x8 interface that can accommodate various expansion cards. Framework gave several examples, such as B. a dual M.2 SSD with up to 16 TB of additional storage space, video capture cards and dedicated graphics cards. This last point is very interesting. Other companies, like Alienware, tried to build a laptop with an upgradeable GPU but always failed. There were even MXM graphics cards, but it remained very confidential.
Framework Laptop 16 // Source: Framework
Finally, there is the system that allows users to plug small cards into the USB4 ports located on the sides (3 on each side, for a total of 6). This corresponds to what Framework 13 offers.
Pricing and availability for the Framework Laptop 16 have yet to be announced, although Framework has hinted at the second half of 2023 for first deliveries.
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