Two years ago, Framework took the tech world by storm when it unveiled the Framework Laptop 16, a machine promising the “holy grail” of modular laptops—upgradable graphics cards. It was an ambitious project, aimed at redefining the boundaries of laptop customization. But at Framework’s latest event in San Francisco, the Laptop 16 was barely mentioned. Instead, the company shifted focus to a brand-new product: the Framework Desktop.
Is the Laptop 16 Still a Priority?
While Framework’s new Desktop system and its 13-inch laptop received upgrades to the latest AMD processors, the Framework Laptop 16 was notably absent from major announcements. The only real update came in the form of an experimental One Key Module, allowing community developers to build their own ultra-thin electromechanical keyboards that fit into the Laptop 16’s Input Module bay.
Beyond that, there was little news about the modular laptop’s future. Even with the long-awaited M.2 adapter bay—which lets users install additional SSDs or peripherals in place of a discrete GPU—finally shipping last December, the burning question remains: Will the Framework Laptop 16 get new mainboards, upgraded chips, or the long-awaited GPU module?
Framework’s CEO Weighs In
At the event, Framework CEO Nirav Patel addressed speculation about the Laptop 16’s future, offering a clear but cautious response:
“We’re nowhere near done with Framework Laptop 16.”
However, when pressed on whether the laptop would see at least one GPU upgrade or a snap-on secondary battery, Patel remained tight-lipped:
“Today is not that day.”
A Cautious Future for Upgradable Laptops
The Framework Laptop 16’s promise of GPU upgrades has always been its most ambitious feature—but also its riskiest. History hasn’t been kind to modular laptop concepts. Dell/Alienware’s Area-51m once made similar claims, only to abandon GPU upgrades altogether, leading to lawsuits over broken promises.
Framework has so far avoided outright guaranteeing future GPU modules, despite strong demand. Given its track record of listening to user feedback, it’s possible that the company is rethinking certain aspects of the Laptop 16 before committing to new hardware.
While the wait continues, one thing is clear: Framework isn’t giving up on the Laptop 16—at least not yet.
