Now with some notable fanfare, Framework, a rising star in the tech world, has revealed another big step forward with its Framework Laptop 16. The new upgradable graphics module, which features Nvidia‘s RTX 5070 GPU, allows users to improve their laptop’s graphics performance with ease. Imagination’s innovation is set to change the way computer users will game and use graphic-intensive applications on laptops forever.
The RTX 5070 graphics module is fully compatible with all previous Framework 16 laptops. This will allow existing owners to improve their systems without requiring them to buy new hardware. Installation is a snap. End users can swap out the module with nothing more than a common household screwdriver. The new graphics module only weighs 0.3 kilograms. It appears almost exactly the same as its predecessor which allows for more seamless integration into the device.
Innovative Power Adapter
Alongside the new graphics module, Framework has launched a completely novel 240-watt USB-C power adapter. This adapter is a first for the consumer laptop market, offering up to 15% more power than the shipment-ready 180-watt adapter. You may notice that the 180 W adapter isn’t blown away by most USB-C laptop adapters. Most of these adapters are 65-100 W, this one packs much higher power.
Nirav Patel, a key figure at Framework, stated, “For the first generation of Framework Laptop 16, the silicon didn’t exist for us to be able to create the [240 W] power adapter yet.” Beyond adding more powerful hardware capacity, this development allows for entirely new functionalities that improve flexibility and usability for users.
Patel further emphasized the importance of this advancement by saying, “As soon as the technology was available, we went ahead and did that.” The creative power adapter is a perfect fit with Framework’s overall mission of delivering forward-looking solutions to Framework users.
Partnership with Nvidia
That’s where the partnership between Framework and Nvidia has been instrumental in making the new RTX 5070 graphics module a reality. Together in 2024, the two companies released their collaborative project. They worked hand-in-hand with researchers and educators to fully understand the requirements of today’s laptop users so these users could have their needs addressed.
Patel remarked on the significance of this upgrade, stating, “Upgradeable graphics in a laptop is basically the holy grail.” The capability to upgrade the graphics performance without having to replace the whole laptop fills a huge void in the market.
He added, “They know the Framework 16 is unique and compelling, and solves a problem others haven’t been able to solve.” This collaboration is more than a demonstration of technological capabilities, it’s a testament to Framework’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovation in the laptop market.
User-Centric Design
The design of the Framework Laptop 16 promotes ease of use and accessibility and reflects a deep understanding of its users. The new graphics module connects to the back of the laptop and locks in. The input device, which connects via a specialized interposer, is also secured with screws. That design, though simple and elegant, gives the user the unique ability to upgrade quickly and efficiently. It’s addressed everyone from tech-slinging Fremont to the everyday consumer.
These important updates are a perfect example of Framework’s focus on sustainability and longevity in technology practices. By giving users the ability to upgrade their devices rather than forcing them to discard and buy new ones, Framework is making a meaningful impact on electronic waste.