Framework Revitalizes Laptop 12 with Intel Core Series 3 and Key Upgrades
San Francisco, CA – [Date of Publication] – Framework, the company celebrated for its modular and repairable laptops, has unveiled a significant refresh to its compact and colorful Framework Laptop 12. Following the introduction of a high-end 13-inch model, the company has now focused its attention on its smaller sibling, integrating Intel’s latest Core Series 3 chips and addressing several user-requested hardware enhancements.
The updated Framework Laptop 12 boasts the new Intel Core Series 3 processors, a move that Framework asserts brings substantial efficiency improvements. While the previous generation’s Core i5 version of the Laptop 12 was lauded for its charm, it was also noted for its premium price point. This new iteration aims to offer a more compelling value proposition with enhanced performance and battery life.
Framework’s internal testing highlights the impressive gains in efficiency. For instance, the Core 5 model of the new Laptop 12 demonstrated a remarkable 70% improvement in battery life during Netflix streaming compared to its Core i5 predecessor. This substantial boost in endurance is a direct result of the architectural advancements in Intel’s non-Ultra Core Series 3 chips, mirroring the benefits seen in the higher-tier Core Ultra Series 3 used in the Framework Laptop 13 Pro.
Consumers can choose from pre-built configurations featuring a Core 3, Core 5, or Core 7 chip, paired with 8GB, 16GB, or 32GB of RAM respectively. While the 8GB base memory option might seem modest, Framework acknowledges the ongoing "RAMaggedon" affecting the computer industry. For those requiring more robust memory, the Laptop 12 can be configured with up to 48GB of RAM, albeit at an additional cost of $659.
Beyond the processor upgrade, the new Laptop 12 brings several welcome features. The integration of the latest Intel chip enables support for Thunderbolt 4 on two of the device’s four hot-swappable Expansion Cards, significantly boosting connectivity options. Furthermore, the laptop now benefits from faster DDR5 RAM, contributing to overall system responsiveness. While the 12.2-inch display remains unchanged, users now have the option to include a backlit keyboard and a fingerprint reader, enhancing both usability and security. These upgrades are particularly convenient for users opting for the pre-built Core 5 and Core 7 models running Linux, as both features are included by default.
In a nod to its strong open-source community, Framework is offering the new Laptop 12 with Linux pre-installed. The company notes that over 80% of original Laptop 12 owners utilize Linux, leading to the decision to offer Fedora as the default operating system. Windows 11 remains available as a $100 upgrade. To ensure a smooth experience for Linux enthusiasts, Framework has proactively seeded the new hardware to various Linux distributions, guaranteeing robust support upon the laptop’s release.
The Framework Laptop 12 is available for pre-order now, with shipping slated to commence in October. Pricing starts at $699 for a pre-built Linux configuration in green, while the DIY version, offering greater customization, begins at $549 and comes in a range of colors including black, gray, light purple, pink, or green. This refreshed Laptop 12 reinforces Framework’s commitment to user choice, repairability, and delivering modern computing power in a sustainable and adaptable package.
