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Framework, the company making an ever-wider range of modular, endlessly repairable machines is showing off its next big project. Today, it previewed the Laptop 12, an affordable 12.2-inch touchscreen convertible built with the same ethos as its bigger siblings. Laptop 12 is targeted as an entry-level machine for young people, students and folks on low incomes. But, rather than the usual compromises inherent in such a machine, it will be just as repairable, modular and crucially upgradeable as the rest of the Framework lineup. Framework Few categories are as emblematic of the problems with consumer electronics as entry-level laptops, explained founder Nirav Patel, they tend to be janky, locked-down, disposable, underpowered and frankly, boring. Laptop 12 takes the general design language of the Laptop 13, but trimmed to suit the smaller footprint and screen. It ships in five colors, with an optional color matched stylus, each one clad in TPU with a metal skeleton for rigidity. Patel said if users are able to break it, repairs are even easier than on the Laptop 13. Framework The company emphasized the Laptop 12 wont use the same sort of no-name bargain-bin parts you often find on entry-level machines. It hasnt released a full spec list yet, but said you will see options for a 13th-generation i3 or i5 Core Processor supporting up to 48GB DDR5 RAM. You can also opt for an NVMe SSD up to 2TB and Wi-Fi 6E, with the usual pick of Windows 11 or Linux. Patel added the 1,920 x 1,200 display has been customized to push out 400 nits of peak brightness with touch and stylus support. Framework says were likely to see all of the gory details arriving at some point in April, which is also when pre-orders will open. Shipments are expected to begin at some point in the summer, and were looking forward to seeing how this operates out in the real world.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/computing/laptops/framework-teases-a-low-cost-2-in-1-convertible-version-of-its-modular-laptop-191231244.html?src=rss
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Framework is today announcing a raft of new products, the most intriguing of which has to be the Framework Desktop. Like the rest of the companys wares, its a modular desktop PC with a focus on modularity, upgradeability and repairability. Naturally, the first question is why, given PCs are already modular, upgradeable and repairable, but the focus here is on making it accessible for the sorts of folks who might see the words thermal and paste and need an urgent trip to the ER. Its not the first time something like this has been mooted: In 2014, Razer pitched Project Christine, a gaming PC with standalone components clad in cartridges that could be swapped in and out. Framework The second reason for this machine existing was AMDs new Ryzen AI Max chip, which was shown to the public at CES in January. Ryzen AI Max is an all-in-one APU, packing a CPU and GPU in the same package mirroring how Apple Silicon chips are designed. Ryzen AI Max promises some fairly spectacular performance despite the lack of a discrete GPU, like 1440p gaming and local AI. But there is one downside to all of these gains the RAM is soldered to the mainboard to enable its staggering 256GB/s memory bandwidth, which Framework says isnt feasible with standard RAM. To compensate, Framework has pledged to ensure to play fair with memory pricing, making it more reasonable than you might find with other brands, i.e. Apple. Framework knows its swimming in different waters with this product, and so has pledged to use as many standard components as possible. Inside that Mini-ITX case youll find a custom mainboard with ATX headers, a PCIe x4 slot, two USB4, two DisplayPort, one HDMI and 5G ethernet ports. The PCIe NVME slots will let you spec up to 16TB storage, and the case has two forward-facing expansion card slots that will let you plug in your own Framework Expansion Cards. The case is equipped with a semi-custom 400W power supply that uses standard 120mm CPU fans or, again, you can bring your own fans if youd prefer. The case has either black or clear sides, and the front is made up with 21 tiles you can design yourself, or 3D-print an alternative if youd prefer. Of course, you can also just buy the mainboard and cram it into your own case, should you prefer to roll your own. Framework Pre-orders for the Framework Desktop are opening now, but shipping wont begin until Q3 of 2025. You can order the mainboard on its own for $799, or get the base model with an AI Max 385 and 32GB RAM for just $1,099. Should you want the flagship AI Max+ 395 with 128GB RAM, youll need to fork over $1,999. All of the systems are sold as DIY Editions with users able to grab their storage and OS from whatever supplier they prefer, too.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/computing/framework-builds-its-own-modular-desktop-191211936.html?src=rss
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Its a little weird to talk about Framework launching a new laptop given it just makes the same machine over and over again. That, of course, is the point, since its building a fleet of modular, upgradeable and repairable machines that eliminate unnecessary e-waste. Lets agree that while launching isnt the right word, it is how well describe the advent of the updated AMD edition of the Framework 13, which now comes with the Ryzen AI 300 on board. Naturally, the big news is the fancier AMD unit welded to the mainboard, which boasts dramatically improved AI performance for Microsoft Copilot+. But Framework has made its usual series of nips and tucks, adding Wi-Fi 7, a new thermal system, improved keyboard and new color options. As usual, all of these features can be bolted onto any existing Framework 13 when required. One of the biggest issues for every Framework 13 so far has been the cooling the tiny fans have to work overtime whenever the system gets taxed. So the advent of the new mainboard also sees a(nother) attempt at keeping the silicon far cooler than it has been before. Open this up and youll find a new single 10mm heat pipe paired with Honeywells PTM7958 thermal paste which, its hoped, will ensure you can hear yourself think over your laptop. If you recall from the previous AMD Framework 13, there was an issue with what standards each port supported. The situation is a little clearer here, since the rear ports support USB 4, while the forward ones both have USB 3.2 plus DisplayPort. We explored this in greater detail at the time, but the situation remains mildly annoying if you forget what can go where. Framework has also very gently tweaked the keyboard to address an issue with rigidity with the wide keys, like shift and the spacebar. If you buy a Windows 11 model, youll also have a Copilot key printed on it but Framework reminds you its possible to buy a DIY edition without one, too. Framework Rounding out the changes is the advent of injection molded packaging, which enables Framework to sell you transparent hardware. It will now sell you a transparent bezel, as well as translucent purple, green and black options for greater customization. Plus, youll be able to pick up many of the expansion cards clad in transparent plastic, too, not just the ethernet expansion card letting you relive your dream of owning the coolest Game Boy ever made. The new Framework Laptop 13 with AMDs Ryzen AI 300 series starts at $800 for the DIY edition and $1,099 for pre-built. Naturally, that price can go all sorts of places depending on how much gear you choose to throw on top of what comes as standard. Pre-orders are open today with shipments due to begin in April. Plus, the company will sell you the older Ryzen 7040 model for $749 with CEO Nirav Patel saying this isn't just a while stocks last deal, but as a way to lower the entry price for new buyers.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/computing/framework-updates-its-13-inch-laptop-with-amds-ryzen-300-ai-series-chips-191128145.html?src=rss
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