Framework Unveils Upgrades, New Laptops, and More

Framework Laptop 13 Gets Major AI Boost, New Design Elements

Framework is shaking things up with a wave of new products and upgrades, focusing on enhanced performance, user experience, and sustainability. The company announced new configurations for its popular Framework Laptop 13 and Framework Laptop 16, alongside exciting new accessories and expansion options. This latest release shows Framework’s commitment to its modular design philosophy, allowing users to upgrade and customize their machines like never before.

The Framework Laptop 13 is receiving a significant overhaul with the introduction of Intel’s Core Ultra Series 3 processors, codenamed Panther Lake. These new chips bring improved power efficiency, a 16-core CPU for demanding tasks, and a powerful new integrated GPU designed for on-device AI processing. This means your laptop can handle AI tasks faster and more efficiently, keeping your data private on your hardware.

Beyond the processor, the Framework Laptop 13 now boasts a completely redesigned chassis. The top, input, and bottom covers are now machined from a single block of 6063 aluminum, making it feel more rigid and solid. A new ‘graphite’ finish is available, and existing owners can also purchase silver chassis parts to upgrade their current laptops.

The display on the Framework Laptop 13 has also been customized. It’s a 13.5-inch, 2880×1920 panel with a 3:2 aspect ratio, offering more vertical space for coding and productivity.

This LCD screen provides up to 700 nits of brightness, a 1800:1 contrast ratio, and a special anti-glare coating for clear viewing in any light. It also supports a variable refresh rate from 30 to 120 Hz and is a touchscreen.

Another key upgrade for the Framework Laptop 13 is the new haptic touchpad. It uses PZO-based haptic technology, similar to what’s found on the Framework Laptop 16, offering precise feedback.

The laptop also now supports Dolby Atmos with stereo speakers and offers customizable bezel colors. For those who value privacy, hardware switches are included for security.

Framework is also making its new parts available in the Framework Marketplace. This means current Framework Laptop 16 owners can upgrade their existing machines with the new one-piece haptic touchpad and keyboard. The translucent smoke gray bezel, made from 98% post-consumer recycled polycarbonate, is also available for purchase.

Framework Laptop 16 Gets Haptic Upgrade and Ryzen Power

The Framework Laptop 16 is also seeing significant updates. The most notable is the new one-piece haptic touchpad module.

This replaces the older three-piece design with a single CNC aluminum part featuring a haptic touchpad. It uses four haptic elements to provide consistent feedback across the entire surface, making for a more responsive feel.

To complement the new touchpad, Framework has also introduced a new one-piece keyboard. This update aims to provide a more unified and premium typing experience for the larger Framework laptop. The new keyboard and haptic touchpad are available for pre-order now, with shipments starting in June.

For those seeking more processing power, Framework is introducing a Ryzen AI5 configuration for the Framework Laptop 16. This new option lowers the entry price while maintaining the laptop’s signature modularity and upgradeability. This configuration, along with the one-piece haptic touchpad and keyboard, is available for pre-order today.

Oculink Dev Kit Promises External Graphics and High-Speed Connectivity

Framework is previewing an exciting new Oculink development kit, designed to expand the capabilities of the Framework Laptop 16. This kit consists of three main parts, offering flexible external connectivity options.

The first is an Oculink adapter board that fits into the Framework Laptop 16’s expansion bay. It brings an Oculink 8i connector to the back of the laptop, supporting an eight-lane interface for up to 128 Gbits per second of bidirectional data transfer. This opens the door for very high-speed external devices.

The second part is a graphics module Oculink dock. This allows you to take the graphics module from your Framework Laptop 16 and use it externally. It’s a great way to reuse older graphics modules or to keep your laptop more portable by leaving the graphics card behind.

Finally, the PCIe Oculink adapter lets you connect standard PCIe cards to your Framework Laptop 16. This includes desktop graphics cards, high-speed 100 GB network cards, or video capture cards. Framework is positioning this as a kit where users can build their own custom external solutions.

New Wireless Keyboard and Accessories Expand the Ecosystem

Framework is also launching a new wireless keyboard with an integrated touchpad, aiming to create a peripheral users will actually love. It uses Nordic’s latest ultra-low-power NRF54 W system on a chip for excellent power efficiency and connectivity over Bluetooth LE or a USB dongle.

The keyboard supports four wireless connection profiles, allowing easy switching between different computers. It can also function as a wired USB-A or USB-C keyboard.

The touchpad offers accurate tracking and multi-touch gestures on both Windows and Linux. The battery is replaceable, and the keyboard firmware is open-source, built on ZMK, allowing extensive customization.

Framework is making the keyboard control board available as a standalone unit on the Framework Marketplace. This allows enthusiasts to build their own custom keyboard projects. The wireless touchpad keyboard is expected to ship later this year.

Other new items include a 10G Ethernet expansion card, bringing faster wired networking to Framework laptops and desktops. A new Framework Laptop Sleeve in black and space silver is also available, designed to fit both the Framework Laptop 13 and 12.

Pricing and Availability

The Framework Laptop 13 Pro, with Intel Core Ultra Series 3 processors, starts at $1199 for DIY editions and $1499 for pre-built versions. Shipments begin in June for all 36 countries Framework ships to. AMD Ryzen AI 300 series processor versions are also available for pre-order today.

The Framework Laptop 16 with the one-piece haptic touchpad and keyboard, and the Ryzen AI5 configuration, are available for pre-order now with shipments starting in June. The translucent smoke gray bezel is expected later this summer.

The Oculink dev kit is slated for release later this year, with more details to come. The Framework wireless touchpad keyboard will also ship later this year. All new parts and accessories will be available through the Framework Marketplace.

Specs & Key Features

• Framework Laptop 13 Pro: Intel Core Ultra Series 3 (Panther Lake) or AMD Ryzen AI 300 series processors, up to 64GB LP DDR5X RAM, new 74.45 Wh battery, 13.5-inch 2880×1920 3:2 LCD display (700 nits, 120Hz VRR), PZO haptic touchpad, CNC aluminum chassis, customizable bezels.
• Framework Laptop 16: Ryzen AI5 configuration available, one-piece haptic touchpad with 4 haptic elements, one-piece keyboard, translucent smoke gray bezel (98% recycled polycarbonate).
• Oculink Dev Kit: Oculink adapter board (8i, up to 128 Gbits/s), graphics module Oculink dock, PCIe Oculink adapter for standard PCIe cards.
• Expansion Cards: 10G Ethernet expansion card.
• Peripherals: Framework Wireless Touchpad Keyboard (Bluetooth LE/USB, NRF54 W SoC, open-source firmware), Framework Laptop Sleeve.
• Other: Ubuntu certification for Framework Laptop 13 Pro.

Source: Framework Next Gen Event in 10 minutes (YouTube)