Framework announces Framework Laptop 16 with upgradeable GPU, swappable keyboard, and more

Framework today announced the Framework Laptop 16, a 16-inch laptop that maintains the repairability and upgradeability that Framework is known for. The Laptop 16 is built around three primary aspects: an Input Module system, an Expansion Bay system, and Framework's recognizable Expansion Card system.

The Framework Laptop 16 features a user-swappable keyboard comprised of Input Modules (capitalized by Framework) of various sizes. Framework highlighted Small, Medium, and Large modules, each of which is compatible with the Laptop 16. Small modules are intended for specific functions, such as color customization or haptic sliders. Examples of Medium modules include numpads, macro pads, or even a secondary display. Large modules can be full keyboards that can add some RGB flair to the machine.

The Input Modules are all hot-swappable and run on a Raspberry Pi RP2040 microcontroller. Framework has open-sourced the microcontroller's firmware to let others build their own modules. Framework said that users can build almost anything into an Input Module, including "jog wheels, sliders, touchscreen displays, e-ink notepads, smartcard readers, and more." As long as it fits within the 3.7 mm height limit, it can be built into an Input Module. 

Perhaps the highlight of the Framework Laptop 16 is the Expansion Bay system. This is essentially a configurable PCIe x8 interface that can adapt to a variety of expansion cards. Framework listed several examples, including a dual M.2 SSD card with 16 TB of additional storage, video capture devices, and upgradeable GPU cards. 

This last point has piqued the interest of many laptop enthusiasts. Other companies, such as Alienware, have tried their hand at building a laptop with an upgradeable GPU only to abandon the system shortly after. Other manufacturers have shipped laptops with MXM graphics cards that could be removed and theoretically swapped out, but these are exceptionally rare. Framework has open-sourced the documentation for the Expansion Bay system, which may entice companies (or individuals) to create their own swappable GPUs.

Like the Framework Laptop 13, the Laptop 16 will also feature the company's Expansion Card system, which allows users to insert small I/O cards into the side-mounted USB4 ports to sleekly add any I/O they'd like. The Laptop 16 has also replaced the 3.5 mm audio jack with the new Audio Expansion Card, which can be swapped out for a USB port. This allows users to choose between analog audio or a USB port for connecting a USB headset. 

Pricing and availability for the Framework Laptop 16 haven't been announced yet, although Framework is eyeing the back half of 2023 for shipping the first units. 

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