Framework recently held an event in San Francisco, but the focus was not on its ambitious Laptop 16. Instead, the company introduced the Framework Desktop, a new modular system aimed at gamers, alongside updated AMD processors for its 13-inch laptop. The Laptop 16, once considered a breakthrough in upgradable graphics, was only briefly mentioned, leaving its future uncertain.
Little mention of the Laptop 16
Two years ago, Framework made headlines with the Laptop 16, a modular laptop promising upgradable graphics cards—something rarely achieved in the industry. However, at this year’s event, the device received only a small update: a new One Key Module. This module is designed for community-built electromechanical keyboards, offering customization within the laptop’s Input Module bay.
Aside from this, there was no announcement regarding hardware upgrades or new graphics options for the Laptop 16. This omission raises concerns about whether Framework is still committed to its most ambitious laptop.
Despite the lack of major updates, Framework CEO Nirav Patel assured attendees that the company is not done with the Laptop 16. When directly asked if the device would receive a GPU upgrade or a snap-on secondary battery, Patel responded, “Today is not that day.”
This hesitation has led to speculation about the project’s future. The Laptop 16 only began shipping in mid-2023, so it may be too soon for significant hardware revisions. However, skepticism remains, given that previous modular laptop attempts—such as Dell’s Alienware Area-51m—failed to deliver on similar promises.
Is Framework rethinking the Laptop 16?
Framework has not yet set clear plans for GPU updates for the Laptop 16. In December, the firm did well to ship out its M.2 add-on adapter, which lets users add more SSDs or other parts in place of a GPU. This adds choice but does not match the first idea of a GPU that can be changed, which many liked.
It might be that Framework is rethinking its plan. The Laptop 16 is a new but tricky device, and adding a way to swap GPUs is still a big task. If the firm is tweaking things in private, it may hold off on news until a better fix is ready.
Conclusion
Framework’s latest event provided no definitive answers about the Laptop 16’s future. While Patel insists that the company is not finished with the device, the lack of concrete updates leaves open questions. For now, those hoping for a true modular GPU upgrade will have to wait—without any guarantees.
