Something to look forward to: Framework's latest modular laptop lets users enter the so-called "AI PC" era, potentially without buying a whole new PC. The Framework 13 upgrade also includes a new webcam and a higher-resolution 2.8K screen with a faster 120Hz refresh rate. In addition, the company has slashed the prices of some of the earlier models and older parts, some significantly.
Pre-orders are now open for a new generation of Framework 13 laptops featuring Intel's Core Ultra Series 1 CPUs, high-refresh-rate monitors, and better webcams. The complete system starts at $899, but those with older variants can replace their motherboards with the Core Ultra starting at $449. You can currently pre-order in 14 countries.
The new mainboards allow users to pick between three of Intel's new Meteor Lake CPUs: the Ultra 5 125H for $449, the Ultra 7 155H for $669, and the Ultra 7 165H for $999. The processors, introduced by Intel late last year, are the company's first to emphasize NPUs for enhanced onboard AI workloads.
Framework is replacing the earlier 2,256 x 1,504-pixel 60Hz display with a 2.8K (2,880 x 1,920) 120Hz 256 PPI screen that supports variable refresh rate and enables 2:1 scaling on Linux. It features an anti-glare matte surface and 500 nits of brightness at a 1,500:1 contrast ratio. Customers can purchase and install the new monitor on an older Framework 13 for $269.
However, users should note that the new display's corners are rounded by 3mm at the top and 1mm at the bottom. Promising more information at a later date, Framework explained that it was forced to repurpose a panel originally intended for a device from another company.
The new webcam, available independently for $39, introduces a smartphone-like subpixel grouping system to create high-density pixels. The change should improve low-light performance.
Those wishing to avoid DIY upgrades can now order new configurations combining the new screen and webcam with Ryzen 7040 processors, which include AMD's XDNA NPUs. Users interested in further customizing Framework laptops can buy and swap out numerous other components like memory, storage, connection ports, keyboards, coolers, fingerprint scanners, and more. A new SD card port is available for pre-order.
Earlier Framework laptops and some components have received permanent price cuts, too.
The 13.5-inch Ryzen 7040 laptop now starts at $799 while the 13th-gen Intel edition is available for as low as $779. The largest price drop is for the i7-1185G7 mainboard, which is 66 percent off at $349.
Users interested in a more powerful modular laptop can check out the Framework 16 with a Ryzen 7040, starting at $1,399. It includes a 165Hz VRR screen, and the company hopes to eventually add upgradeable dedicated graphics.
