Framework has updated its 12-inch modular computer with Intel Core Series 3 processors. Pre-built configurations ship with a choice of Core 3, Core 5, or Core 7 processors, paired with baseline memory options ranging from 8GB to 32GB.<\/p>\n
Intel Core Series 3 non-Ultra processors utilize a hybrid core design to reduce power consumption. Framework reported a 70 percent increase in battery life during Netflix streaming on the Core 5 configuration compared to the earlier Core i5 model. Memory can be configured up to 48GB of DDR5 RAM.<\/p>\n
The updated system retains four modular expansion slots. Two of these slots support Thunderbolt 4<\/a> connectivity through the integrated Intel interface. Physical hardware options include a backlit keyboard assembly and an integrated top-cover fingerprint reader.<\/p>\n Like the Laptop 13 Pro, the Laptop 12 is yet another of Framework’s computers that can come pre-installed with Linux. The company says over 80 percent of original Laptop 12 owners are running Linux, so it’s decided to offer the new model pre-installed with Fedora, with Windows 11 available as a $100 upgrade. Framework says the new Laptop 12 hardware has also been seeded to other Linux distros so support will be ready when the laptop ships.<\/p>\n Fedora Workstation serves as the default operating system on pre-built Linux units, developed through the open-source Fedora Project<\/a>. Framework maintains hardware support repositories to ensure driver compatibility across Ubuntu, Arch, and Linux Mint distributions.<\/p>\n The Framework Laptop 12 starts at $699 for a pre-built Linux configuration in green or $549 for a DIY version in black, gray, light purple, pink, or green. Framework is collecting pre-orders now and plans to start shipping the new laptop in October.<\/p>\n