Framework Laptop and Desktop Upgrades with AMD Ryzen AI 300 Series

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The recent announcements from Framework have sent ripples of excitement through the tech community, as the company unveiled significant upgrades for its Laptop 13 and introduced its first desktop PC. At the heart of these upgrades is the powerful AMD Ryzen AI 300 Series, which promises to deliver substantial performance improvements. The new AMD Ryzen AI 300 Series processors utilize Zen 5 cores and Radeon RDNA 3.5 graphics, offering a choice of Ryzen 5, Ryzen 7, and high-end Ryzen 9 HX 370 configurations.

One of the most notable aspects of the Framework Laptop 13 upgrade is the improved thermal solution, which incorporates a large 10mm heatpipe and Honeywell's PTM7958 phase change thermal interface material. This enhancement is expected to significantly improve heat transfer, allowing for more efficient performance. Additionally, the new keyboard design features a satisfying 1.5mm key travel and a dedicated Microsoft Copilot key, although an alternate keyboard design will be available for those who prefer a different layout. The introduction of translucent color options for the Expansion Slots adds a touch of personality to the laptop's design.

Framework's first desktop PC, built around the mini-ITX mainboard, boasts a compact 4.5L design and customizable front panel with 21 interchangeable plastic square tiles. The device is powered by AMD's Strix Halo architecture, also known as the Ryzen AI Max processors, which promise exceptional performance for gaming and local AI inference. The top configuration features 16 CPU cores, 40 graphics cores, and 80MB of cache, making it an attractive option for those who require high-performance computing. However, the soldered-in RAM, ranging from 32GB to 128GB, may be a point of contention for some users.

The base model of the Framework Desktop starts at $1,099, while the top-end version costs $1,999. Pre-orders are open now, with shipments scheduled to begin in early Q3 2025. In contrast, the Framework Laptop 13 with AMD Ryzen AI 300 Series starts at $899 for the DIY edition and $1,099 for pre-built systems. The company's commitment to modularity and upgradability is evident in its design choices, allowing users to easily upgrade and repair their devices. As the tech landscape continues to evolve, Framework's innovative approach to consumer electronics is certainly worth keeping an eye on, particularly with the integration of AI and machine learning capabilities.

In conclusion, Framework's latest announcements demonstrate the company's dedication to pushing the boundaries of innovation and performance in the tech industry. With its upgraded Laptop 13 and introduction of the desktop PC, Framework is poised to make a significant impact on the market. As the company continues to refine its designs and technologies, it will be exciting to see how its products evolve and improve over time, potentially incorporating more advanced AI and machine learning capabilities.