Framework’s Revolutionary Leap: A Deep Dive into Modular Laptops and the Mini-PC Revolution

Framework, celebrated for its commitment to repairable and upgradable notebooks, recently held an event showcasing its latest innovations. The company, which champions the ideology of repairable and upgradable notebooks, continues to deliver on its mission. Among the announcements were upgrades to the Framework Laptop 13, a refresh of the Framework Laptop 16, the introduction of the Framework Desktop miniPC, and a sneak peek at the Framework Laptop 12. The event highlighted Framework’s dedication to modularity and sustainability in the tech industry.

Framework Laptop 13: Enhanced Performance and New Features

The Framework Laptop 13 received a important upgrade with the introduction of new motherboards featuring AMD Strix Point APUs. These processors incorporate the Zen5 CPU architecture and boast remarkable integrated graphics (IGPU) and a 50 TOPS NPU. The top-tier Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 features a total of twelve cores, comprising four Zen5 cores and eight Zen5C cores, with SMT support.

Cooling improvements have also been implemented, with a single, thicker heatpipe and the use of Honeywell PTM7958 instead of customary thermal paste. While specific power limits remain undisclosed, they are expected to be in the 30 to 35-watt range. The motherboard retains two DDR5 SODIMM slots, supporting up to 5600 MT/s memory and a maximum of 96GB of RAM. Additionally, the updated laptop incorporates WiFi 7 chipsets manufactured by MediaTek.

A notable enhancement is the inclusion of DisplayPort output support on all four modular ports, a feature previously absent in the AMD version. According to Nirav Patel, CEO of Framework, the laptop also features an improved keyboard produced by Lite-On, designed to address minor issues and enhance the overall user experience.

The keyboard also features updated key prints. Framework Laptop 13 models pre-installed with Windows 11 will feature the Windows logo on the start key. DIY versions without a pre-installed OS will have the Framework logo on the start key.

Framework continues to support Linux, with official support for Linux Mint, Arch, Ubuntu, and Fedora distributions on the Framework Laptop 13 equipped with AMD Strix Point APUs. The company provided advance units to these distributions for fine-tuning and optimization.

Adding a touch of personalization, Framework is offering a translucent bezel around the display and obvious USB-C modules.

The adoption of AMD Strix point APUs has resulted in a price increase compared to the older Phoenix models, which are now offered with a 3 to 5% discount. A configuration with the top-tier twelve-core AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370, 2.8K display, RAM, and four modules (2x USB-C, USB-A, HDMI), but without SSD, OS, or adapter, is priced at 50,360 CZK including VAT. The eight-core Ryzen AI 7 350 configuration costs 41,760 CZK with VAT, while the six-core Ryzen AI 5 340 configuration is priced at 31,660 CZK with VAT. Opting for the older 2256×1504 LCD panel can reduce the price by approximately 3,700 CZK.

For comparison,the original Zen4 phoenix model with Ryzen 7 7840U,2256×1504 display,RAM,and four modules,but without OS,SSD,or adapter,costs approximately 31,860 CZK including VAT. The AMD ryzen 7 7840U remains a capable mobile processor, making it a viable option for users who do not require additional cores or enhanced integrated graphics.

Framework Laptop 16: Focus on Modularity

The larger, more modular Framework Laptop 16 also received attention at the event. While it did not receive a motherboard upgrade with newer processors, the company introduced a new keyboard module featuring individual keys. This allows users to create custom layouts and possibly incorporate ergonomic designs.

Framework Desktop: A Surprising Entry into the MiniPC Market

The most unexpected proclamation was the Framework Desktop,a miniPC powered by the new AMD Strix Halo APU. This chip features up to sixteen Zen5 cores,a Radeon 8060s IGPU,and a 256-bit memory bus. It supports up to 128GB of LPDDR5X-8000 RAM, with up to 96GB of VRAM allocable to the graphics core, making it suitable for AI workloads.

The Framework Desktop operates at 120 watts and delivers substantially faster performance than the ASUS ROG FLOW Z13 tablet, even though the Strix Halo is power-limited to 60-70W in the tablet. The motherboard includes two M.2 2280 PCIe Gen4 X4 slots, one pcie Gen4 X4 slot, and standard power connectors. The cooler is designed to accommodate virtually any 120×120 mm fan, with a focus on minimizing noise even at maximum load.

The rear panel features two USB-A 10GB/S ports, HDMI output, two DisplayPort outputs, two USB4 ports, a 3.5mm audio jack, and a 5 GBE network port. The limited port selection is attributed to the mobile-oriented design of the Strix Halo, which offers only sixteen pcie Gen4 lines.

Frank Azor from AMD briefly discussed the Strix Halo, reiterating previously known facts.

Framework emphasized the cost-effectiveness of the Framework Desktop with strix Halo, highlighting its 128GB RAM capacity compared to competitors that charge significant premiums for similar configurations. The ability to allocate up to 96GB of VRAM for the GPU is a unique advantage,even though dedicated graphics cards with ample memory may offer superior performance.

The company also suggested the possibility of creating AI clusters by combining multiple Framework desktops with Linux and ROCm.

The Framework Desktop features two modular ports on the front panel, compatible with those used in Framework notebooks.The front side also supports customizable tiles for personalization.

pre-sales for the Framework Desktop with AMD Strix halo have commenced, with shipments expected to begin in

Framework’s Modular Revolution: A Deep Dive into Repairable Tech and the Future of Computing

“the recent framework event wasn’t just a product launch; it was a statement about the future of sustainable and user-empowering technology.”

World-Today-News.com (WTN): Dr. Anya Sharma,leading expert in sustainable technology and modular computing,welcome to World-Today-News.com. Framework’s recent launch of upgraded laptops and a surprising mini-PC has generated notable buzz. Can you provide an overview of the key innovations unveiled at the event and their meaning for the tech industry?

Dr. Sharma: Absolutely.Framework’s announcements represent a significant shift towards a more sustainable and user-centric approach to computing. The key innovations include upgrades to their already popular Framework Laptop 13 and 16, focusing on enhanced performance and modularity, and a game-changing entry into the mini-PC market with the framework Desktop. The significance lies in their unwavering commitment to repairability, upgradability, and the reduction of electronic waste. This directly addresses growing concerns about the environmental impact of the tech industry’s rapid consumption cycles.

WTN: Let’s delve deeper into the Framework Laptop 13. The AMD Strix Point APUs are a significant upgrade. Can you explain the benefits of this new processor architecture and its impact on performance and longevity?

Dr. Sharma: The move to AMD Strix Point APUs with Zen5 architecture in the Framework Laptop 13 is crucial. It offers a considerable boost in processing power, integrated graphics capabilities, and AI performance. The inclusion of a powerful integrated GPU reduces the need for a dedicated graphics card in many scenarios,enhancing efficiency and extending battery life. The Zen5 architecture is known for its power efficiency, contributing to the laptop’s overall longevity. It also allows for future software updates and performance improvements, extending the usable lifespan far beyond what’s typical with many commercially available laptops. The key here is not just the immediate performance gain, but the potential for future upgrades and extended product life.

WTN: Framework emphasized the modularity of its products. How does this design philosophy contribute to sustainability and user empowerment?

dr. Sharma: Modularity is at the core of Framework’s approach, allowing users to repair, upgrade, and customize their devices far more easily than traditional systems.This extends the product’s lifespan, reducing the need for replacement purchases, which is a major contributor to e-waste. Users gain greater control and less reliance on manufacturers, leading to significant cost savings over time. They can easily replace individual components, like keyboards, screens, or even the motherboard, keeping the device functioning and relevant for years.

WTN: The Framework Desktop is a particularly intriguing announcement. What makes it unique, and how does it compare to other mini-PCs on the market?

Dr.Sharma: The Framework Desktop stands out because of its focus on high-performance computing with the AMD Strix halo APU, which benefits from a significant amount of allocable VRAM, all while retaining the company’s commitment to modularity. This allows users to create entirely customizable and upgradable systems. Compared to competitors, its focus on upgradability and its cost-effectiveness for high-RAM configurations offer a compelling advantage. This is especially true for professionals who demand high processing speeds—such as AI researchers and data scientists—as it caters specifically to their needs for upgradeable memory and processing capabilities. It pushes the envelope of what a compact desktop can offer in terms of sustainable and practical applications.

WTN: What are some of the broader implications of Framework’s approach for the future of the tech industry?

Dr.Sharma: Framework is challenging the industry’s traditional “planned obsolescence” model. Their approach emphasizes longevity, repair, and customization, pushing other manufacturers to adopt more sustainable practices. A move toward modularity and repairability could considerably reduce e-waste, a rapidly growing environmental problem. This shift also empowers users, giving them greater control over their devices and lessening their reliance on manufacturers for repairs or upgrades. this ultimately fosters a more sustainable and empowering ecosystem for the tech industry and consumers alike.

WTN: Any final thoughts for our readers?

Dr. Sharma: Framework’s approach is a refreshing paradigm shift. Their dedication to sustainability and user empowerment creates a lasting impact on the computing landscape.The ability to extend the lifespan of devices and the focus on responsible resource management set a high benchmark for other manufacturers.I strongly encourage everyone to consider the long-term benefits of choosing repairable and upgradable devices. Share your thoughts on the future of sustainable tech in the comments below!