Next-Generation AMD Ryzen Processor Architecture
At the core of the newly announced Framework Laptop 16 refresh sits AMD’s Zen 5-based Ryzen AI 300 Series processors, offering a transformative leap in compute and efficiency. The flagship configuration now features the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370, a 12-core, 24-thread mobile powerhouse with a boost clock up to 5.1 GHz. This chip integrates an updated RDNA 3.5 integrated GPU with 16 compute units, delivering competent gaming performance without a discrete module, and a dedicated XDNA 2 neural processing unit capable of 50 trillion operations per second for on-device AI workloads. Framework has paired this with socketed LPDDR5X-7500 memory in a dual-channel configuration, supporting up to 64 GB, ensuring the mainboard remains upgradeable long after purchase. Benchmark leaks from Framework’s engineering samples show a 23% multi-threaded uplift over the previous Ryzen 9 7940HS, while maintaining the same 35–54 W configurable TDP, preserving the laptop’s thermal headroom for sustained loads.
Revamped Graphics Module Ecosystem
The modular graphics bay, a defining feature of the Framework Laptop 16, receives its most significant expansion yet. For the first time, Framework offers an officially designed NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 Module with 8 GB of GDDR6 VRAM, bringing DLSS 3.5, ray tracing, and CUDA acceleration to the modular platform. The module uses a custom vapor chamber cooler with dual 75 mm liquid-crystal polymer fans, enabling a 115 W maximum graphics power in a hot-swappable cartridge. Existing owners of the original Radeon RX 7700S Module can upgrade directly, and Framework has also announced an updated AMD Radeon RX 7800M XT Module, leveraging RDNA 3 and 12 GB of GDDR6 memory for rasterization-heavy workflows. An intriguing addition is the “Graphics Expansion Shell,” an empty enclosure with a PCIe 4.0 x8 internal interface and standardized mounting points, allowing third-party manufacturers to build drop-in discrete GPU solutions—an industry first that opens the door to future Intel Arc or professional RTX A-series modules.
Enhanced Modular Thermal System
Accommodating higher-wattage components required a complete redesign of the thermal system, which Framework has executed without sacrificing user accessibility. The new Cooler Master co-engineered thermal module features a tri-fan layout with enlarged 0.25 mm-thick copper fins and a reworked heat pipe network. Critically, users can swap the thermal interface material themselves. Framework ships the laptop with a graphene-coated phase-change pad, but the CPU and GPU cold plates now include a recessed liquid metal frame. The company offers a $39 Liquid Metal Application Kit containing a syringe of Conductonaut Extreme, an application stencil, and a silicone gasket, designed for enthusiasts seeking 5–8 °C lower peak temperatures. Dedicated fan control software embedded in the open-source embedded controller firmware allows per-fan curves to be adjusted without third-party tools, complementing the 30% increased fin surface area that reduces acoustic noise by 4 dBA under full combined load.
Upgraded Display Options with Mini-LED Technology
Framework addresses one of the most common feature requests with a new 16-inch Mini-LED display option. The panel retains the 2560×1600 resolution and 16:10 aspect ratio but ramps the refresh rate to 240 Hz, achieves 1,000 nits peak brightness in HDR mode, and covers 100% of the DCI-P3 gamut. Fully user-replaceable, the display assembly now connects via a single, magnetically aligned 40-pin eDP 1.5 ribbon cable behind the magnetically attached bezel—no adhesives, no prying tools. For color-critical work, the panel is factory-calibrated to Delta E < 1 and supports VESA DisplayHDR 1000 certification. A matte finish comes standard, with an optional glossy touchscreen variant shipping later in the year. The standard IPS configuration also receives a bump to 180 Hz and 550 nits, maintaining the low-cost entry point while elevating the baseline experience.
Keyboard and Input Deck Customization
The input deck remains a blank canvas for deep personalization. The new version introduces a haptic touchpad module developed in partnership with Cirque, replacing the traditional diving-board mechanism with a solid-state surface that uses precise linear resonant actuators to simulate clicks anywhere. It supports adjustable haptic intensity and pressure sensitivity zones, including rejection of accidental palm contact. Complementing this, the RGB keyboard module moves from zone-lit to per-key addressable illumination, with a transparent switch housing that showcases the backlighting. Users can swap between ANSI, ISO, and ortholinear layouts within seconds, and the keyboard firmware now supports QMK/VIA for advanced macro programming. A numeric pad module, a macro pad with rotary encoders, and a secondary display strip remain available, all attaching via the same pogo-pin interposer. New color-matched top cover options include translucent Polycarbonate “Clear” and anodized “Deep Blue” aluminum.
Expansion Card System: New Functionalities
Framework’s six-bay Expansion Card system sees an injection of purpose-built cards that move beyond generic port duplication. A 10 Gigabit Ethernet card with an Aquantia AQC113C controller slides into any bay, providing full-line-rate networking for content creators and homelab users. An SD Express 8.0 card reader leverages PCIe 3.0 x2 for sustained 1,970 MB/s read speeds from compatible UHS-II and SD Express media, a first for any laptop. Audiophiles gain a dedicated ESS Sabre ES9281AC PRO DAC card featuring a 3.5 mm jack with auto-impedance sensing, MQA rendering, and 32-bit/384 kHz output. Other new cards include a 4G LTE module slot adapter (modem sold separately), a double-height 2 TB SSD card using a single-sided M.2 2230, and a redesigned HDMI 2.1 card that now supports 4K 120 Hz with VRR. Each card is completely open-source, with schematics and 3D-printable enclosures available on GitHub.
Battery and Power Delivery Improvements
Battery longevity receives attention through a larger 99 Wh lithium-polymer pack, the maximum legally allowed for air travel, which yields an estimated 14 hours of local 1080p video playback on integrated graphics. The pack uses a new battery management IC from Texas Instruments that communicates health statistics directly to the embedded controller, enabling informative wear-level readouts in the UEFI setup and Framework’s cross-platform monitoring application. Fast charging reaches 80% capacity in 45 minutes via the dedicated USB-C 4.0 port, which supports 180 W Power Delivery 3.1. The internal charger employs Gallium Nitride FETs for reduced heat, and the AC adapter is now a compact 180 W GaN brick weighing 320 grams, with a detachable USB-C cable. Critically, the battery remains secured by only four captive Phillips screws and a pull-tab, allowing a replacement time under two minutes without specialized tools.
Chassis Refinements and Structural Integrity
Subtle chassis improvements address feedback from the initial generation. The aluminum top deck and base plate now sport a micro-arc oxidized finish that resists fingerprints and scratches, with 15% thicker CNC-machined walls around the Expansion Bay opening. The display hinges, re-engineered with dual spring-loaded steel bands, open smoothly to 180 degrees and exhibit zero wobble during typing. A redesigned magnetic bezel system uses 16 neodymium magnets instead of clips, making panel removal a one-finger operation. Internal structural ribs are now formed from post-consumer recycled magnesium alloy, and the entire laptop meets MIL-STD-810H drop and vibration standards. Weight starts at 2.1 kg with integrated graphics and no expansion modules, rising to 2.4 kg with a discrete GPU and full module complement—competitive for the performance class.
Software, Firmware, and Linux Compatibility
Framework continues to invest in open firmware, releasing mainboard schematics, bill-of-materials, and full UEFI source code under the GPLv3 license on launch day. The embedded controller firmware now exposes LM4F microcontroller registers for community-driven monitoring tools. Official support extends to Ubuntu 24.04 LTS and Fedora 40, with kernel patches for the 240 Hz display, haptic touchpad, and Wi-Fi 7 card already upstreamed. A new Framework Ecosystem installer handles driver packs for Windows 11 and provides a one-click secure boot set-up. Over-the-air firmware updates for the retimer chips, USB-C PD controllers, and keyboard microcontroller are delivered via LVFS, guaranteeing that even deeply embedded components remain updated without manual intervention.
Pricing, Pre-Order Availability, and DIY Options
Framework has structured the launch around three pre-configured editions and an extensive DIY builder menu. The Base model, with a Ryzen AI 7 350, standard 180 Hz IPS panel, integrated graphics, 16 GB RAM, and 512 GB SSD, starts at $1,399. The Performance tier upgrades to the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370, RTX 4070 Module, Mini-LED 240 Hz display, 32 GB RAM, and 1 TB SSD for $2,499. A fully modular DIY Edition, consisting of a mainboard, chassis, and all replaceable components selected à la carte, begins at $1,099 without memory, storage, or graphics, giving repeat customers the freedom to reuse existing expansion modules and SSDs. Pre-orders open today through Framework’s website, with shipments commencing in September 2025. A limited-run Founder’s Series with laser-engraved serial numbers and an extra set of expansion cards is available for early backers, and Framework pledges $100 from each Founder’s unit to iFixit’s Right to Repair advocacy fund.