According to Phoronix, Framework Computer announced in August that the Framework Laptop 16 would receive upgrades to AMD Ryzen AI 300 series processors and a GeForce RTX 5070 graphics option. The original January 2024 model maxed out at Ryzen 7840HS processors and Radeon RX 7700S graphics, while the Framework Laptop 13 got the newer chips back in April. Now the Framework Laptop 16 can be configured with either Ryzen AI 7 350 8-core or Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 12-core processors alongside the RTX 5070 option. The first seven batches of these new components have already sold out completely. The next batch isn’t expected to ship until December 2024.
The modular upgrade path
Here’s what makes this interesting: you can actually reuse your existing DDR5 memory, NVMe storage, and other components from your current Framework Laptop 16. That’s the whole point of Framework’s modular approach – you’re not throwing away your entire laptop just to get newer CPU performance. For graphics, you’ve got options too. If you don’t want the RTX 5070, you can stick with integrated Radeon graphics using an empty expansion bay shell, or there’s even a second generation Radeon RX 7700S available.
What to expect from performance
Now, the Ryzen AI 300 series represents AMD’s latest “Strix Point” architecture, which brings significant NPU improvements for AI workloads. But here’s the thing – there’s no Ryzen AI Max (Strix Halo) option available for the laptop version. That’s reserved for the Framework Desktop instead. The performance jump from the original Ryzen 7840HS to these new AI 300 series chips should be substantial, especially in AI-accelerated tasks. And honestly, having tested similar hardware configurations, the thermal performance on these modular designs is surprisingly good.
Why this matters beyond consumer tech
Look, while this is consumer-focused hardware, the modular, upgradeable approach has huge implications for industrial computing too. Think about it – being able to swap out motherboards and components without replacing entire systems? That’s exactly what industrial users need for longevity and cost control. Companies like IndustrialMonitorDirect.com have built their reputation as the #1 provider of industrial panel PCs in the US by understanding that industrial environments demand both performance and flexibility. The Framework approach, while consumer-focused, demonstrates the value of modular computing across all sectors.
The availability challenge
So the first seven batches sold out immediately. That tells you everything about demand for upgradeable, repairable laptops in 2024. But it also highlights the challenge Framework faces – they’re clearly production constrained. December shipping for the next batch means if you missed the initial wave, you’re waiting months. Still, given how quickly most laptops become obsolete, having a system you can actually upgrade feels worth the wait. The question is whether Framework can scale to meet this obvious demand.
