Framework has announced a wave of new products and upgrades during its latest event, reinforcing its commitment to modularity and sustainability in the computing world. From the premium Framework Laptop 13 Pro to significant updates for the Framework Laptop 16, the company also introduced a wireless touchpad keyboard and an innovative Oculink dev kit. Here's a breakdown of the announcements and why they matter.

Framework Laptop 13 Pro: High-End Performance and Modularity in a Compact Form

The newly unveiled Framework Laptop 13 Pro is the centerpiece of the announcement. Designed for power users and developers, the 13 Pro brings substantial performance improvements powered by Intel’s latest Core Ultra Series 3 processors, codenamed Panther Lake. With up to 16 cores, this new platform offers significant processing power for demanding tasks. Adding to its appeal, AMD Ryzen AI 300 series processor configurations are also available for those preferring Team Red.

Key features of the Laptop 13 Pro include:

• Battery Improvements: Equipped with a larger 74.45 watt-hour battery, paired with a new 100W power adapter, the device promises impressive longevity, including over 20 hours of 4K Netflix streaming.
• Enhanced Display: A custom-built 13.5-inch 2880 x 1920 screen shines with 700 nits brightness and an anti-glare matte polarizer. With variable refresh rates up to 120 Hz and per-unit color calibration, it's a strong offering for productivity and entertainment.
• Haptic Touchpad: A PZT (Piezoelectric) haptic touchpad ensures accurate tracking and multitouch gestures, adding a layer of seamless control for users.
• Ubuntu Certification: This model is officially validated for Ubuntu Linux systems, ensuring extensive compatibility and robust support for open-source enthusiasts.

Framework has stayed true to its modular ethos, as the Laptop 13 Pro remains backward-compatible with all previous Framework Laptop 13 mainboards. DIY editions start at $1,199, while pre-built configurations begin at $1,499, with shipments starting in June.

Framework Laptop 16 Updates: One-Piece Refinement and More

For fans of the modular Framework Laptop 16, the company announced several refinements that add even more polish and functionality:

• Haptic Touchpad and Keyboard: The original three-piece touchpad layout is replaced by a single CNC aluminum component backed by four piezoelectric haptic elements for consistent feedback. A matching one-piece keyboard completes the redesign.
• Ryzen AI5 Configuration: A new AMD-based configuration lowers the barrier for users to access the Laptop 16's modular features without compromising on performance.
• Translucent Bezel: A smoke-gray bezel made from 98% post-consumer recycled polycarbonate—the highest recycled content in any Framework part—will be available later this summer.

These upgrades are now available for pre-order, with shipments also slated for June. Framework’s ecosystem approach allows current Laptop 16 owners to purchase these new parts individually through the Framework Marketplace.

Oculink Dev Kit: A Modular Approach to Expansion

Innovative as ever, Framework previewed an Oculink dev kit designed to expand the connectivity and versatility of the Laptop 16 further. The dev kit revolves around:

1. Oculink Adapter Board: Slotting into the Laptop 16 expansion shell, it provides an 8-lane Oculink connection with bidirectional throughput of up to 128 Gbits per second.
2. Graphics Module Dock: Allows users to extend the Laptop 16's graphics capabilities externally, enabling upgraded portability or reusing older graphics modules.
3. PCIe Oculink Dock: Unlocks compatibility with standard PCIe expansion cards, such as desktops’ GPUs or high-speed networking and video capture cards.

While Framework demonstrated proof-of-concept builds during the event, the dev kit won't ship until later this year, with further updates promised in the coming months.

Framework Wireless Touchpad Keyboard: Another Step Toward Modular Everywhere

To extend its modular philosophy beyond laptops, Framework introduced a wireless touchpad keyboard. This device integrates a Windows Precision touchpad with Bluetooth LE or USB-A/USB-C connectivity. Powered by an ultra-low-power Nordic NRF54W chip, it offers excellent energy efficiency and can connect to up to four hosts simultaneously.

Some standout features include:

• Open Source and Configurability: Built on ZMK firmware, the keyboard allows full remapping, custom macros, and multi-layer configurations.
• Replaceable Battery: In keeping with Framework’s ethos, the battery is user-replaceable and available through the Framework Marketplace.
• Accessibility for DIY Enthusiasts: Both the CAD design files and keyboard control board are open and available for community modification.

Shipping for the wireless touchpad keyboard is expected later this year, adding another versatile tool to Framework's ecosystem.

Framework Marketplace and Sustainability

Framework continues to emphasize sustainability and user empowerment. Every new component introduced at the event, from the haptic touchpad module to the translucent bezel, is backward-compatible and available individually on the Framework Marketplace. This ensures existing customers can upgrade their devices without purchasing entirely new systems.

What It Means for Framework and the Industry

Framework is carving out a distinct niche in the tech industry. Its focus on modularity and sustainability is an antidote to the e-waste-heavy practices of many competitors. By delivering high-performance devices with customizable options, the company stays ahead of the curve with features that appeal to tinkerers, gamers, and professionals alike.

The announcements also highlight a growing demand for open ecosystems. From the Oculink dev kit to the open-source keyboard firmware, Framework continues to empower users to shape their devices precisely the way they need.

As pre-orders open and new products hit the market this June, it’s clear that Framework isn’t just selling laptops—it’s redefining what ownership means in an industry obsessed with yearly hardware refresh cycles.