Known as a manufacturer of upgradeable laptops, Framework has announced several new devices at the Game Developers Conference 2023.
Framework Laptop 13
The 13.5-inch version of the Framework Modular Laptop has received an update. Now, in addition to the version with the 13th generation Intel processor, a configuration with the AMD Ryzen 7040 chip is also offered.
Given the modularity of the design, owners of the current version can buy a motherboard based on the AMD platform and install it in their existing chassis. Although apart from that, you will also need to upgrade the RAM to DDR5, and the Framework recommends installing an AMD-compatible Wi-Fi card.
In addition, the company has improved some other components of the device. So, users are offered a battery with an increased capacity (61 Wh versus 55 Wh), which is also compatible with existing Framework laptops. There is also a new Display Kit with a matte top layer of the display. The Intel processor configuration received an integrated 80dB Speaker Kit. For AMD systems, the Framework states that it “tweaks the sound design to achieve both volume and fidelity with the original speaker package.”
The updated laptop is already available for pre-order. Deliveries of the version with the Intel processor are scheduled for May, and with the AMD chip – for the third quarter. Pricing starts at $849 for DIY kits and $1,049 for pre-built units.
Framework Laptop 16
Another new addition is Laptop 16, the second Framework platform for laptops aimed at gamers, content creators and other users who need high performance and a modular design that can be upgraded.
The design of the Framework Laptop 16 provides a removable end. Component manufacturers can create modules of various sizes to connect to a laptop. This provides flexibility, although in some cases the butt may appear more convex. But it will be possible to connect a powerful video card to the laptop, which otherwise simply would not fit inside the case.
Framework has developed a new efficient bidirectional PCI-Express interface for the module. It has enough bandwidth to support, say, a module with a couple of SSDs instead of a graphics card. The modules can even be used in an external case, for example, as an external video card. The company also hopes to bring in third-party developers to create solutions for such an interface.
The Framework 16 laptop boasts six I/O expansion slots and a new Input Module system that supports keyboard and touchpad hot swapping. For example, you can move the standard centered keyboard to the left by adding a number pad module to the right. You can also move the touchpad to the left or right. There are other modules in the proof-of-concept phase that will allow you to add an additional display or LED matrix to your laptop.
Full specs for the Framework Laptop 16 will be announced later this spring as pre-orders begin. The device will hit the market at the end of 2023.
Source: The Verge 1, 2
