Framework Laptop 12 Gets Intel Core Series 3 Upgrade, Better Battery Life and New Features

Framework is giving its compact Laptop 12 a significant hardware refresh, bringing Intel’s latest Core Series 3 processors, faster memory support and new configuration options to its most affordable notebook. The update also strengthens the company’s Linux offerings while maintaining the repairable, customizable design that distinguishes Framework laptops.

Framework Laptop 12 Moves to Intel Core Series 3

The updated Framework Laptop 12 is available with Intel Core 3, Core 5 or Core 7 processors, replacing the previous generation of Intel chips.

Pre-built configurations pair the Core 3 model with 8GB of RAM, the Core 5 version with 16GB and the Core 7 configuration with 32GB.

Framework says the new processors deliver improved efficiency as well as stronger overall performance. According to the company, a Core 5 Laptop 12 achieved about 70% better battery life while streaming Netflix compared with the Core i5 version of the original Laptop 12.

The base model’s 8GB of memory may be limiting for buyers planning heavier workloads, but Framework continues to provide extensive upgrade options. Customers can configure the Laptop 12 with as much as 48GB of RAM, although that memory upgrade costs $659.

Thunderbolt 4 and Faster DDR5 Memory Arrive

The move to Intel Core Series 3 also brings support for faster DDR5 memory and Thunderbolt 4 connectivity.

Thunderbolt 4 is supported through two of the laptop’s four hot-swappable Expansion Card positions. Framework’s Expansion Card system allows users to choose and rearrange ports depending on their needs, rather than relying on a permanently fixed selection of connectors.

The company has not upgraded the Laptop 12’s 12.2-inch display with this generation. However, customers can now configure the notebook with a backlit keyboard and fingerprint reader.

Framework’s DIY Edition provides the greatest flexibility for buyers who want to select components themselves. Pre-built Core 5 and Core 7 models running Linux include both the backlit keyboard and fingerprint reader as standard equipment.

Linux Takes a Bigger Role on the Framework Laptop 12

Framework is also expanding its support for Linux following unexpectedly strong adoption among Laptop 12 owners.

The company says more than 80% of owners of the original Laptop 12 are using Linux. In response, Framework will offer the refreshed notebook with Fedora pre-installed.

Windows 11 remains available as a $100 upgrade for customers who prefer Microsoft’s operating system.

Framework says it has also provided the updated Laptop 12 hardware to other Linux distributions ahead of launch, giving developers time to prepare support before shipments begin.

The approach follows the company’s broader effort to make Linux a mainstream factory-installed option across more of its computers, including the higher-end Framework Laptop 13 Pro.

Framework Laptop 12 Starts at $549 for DIY Buyers

Pricing for the refreshed Framework Laptop 12 starts at $699 for a pre-built Linux configuration. That version is available in green.

Customers willing to assemble or configure more of the computer themselves can choose the DIY Edition starting at $549. Framework offers the DIY model in black, gray, light purple, pink and green.

The pricing keeps the Laptop 12 below Framework’s more premium notebooks, although its modular design means the final cost can rise considerably depending on memory, storage and other component choices.

Preorders Open Ahead of October Shipments

Framework is accepting preorders for the updated Laptop 12 now, with shipments expected to begin in October.

The refresh does not radically change the original Laptop 12 formula. Instead, Framework is focusing on practical improvements, including newer Intel processors, longer battery life, faster memory, Thunderbolt 4 connectivity and additional keyboard and security options.

For U.S. buyers interested in a compact, repairable notebook with extensive Linux support, the latest Framework Laptop 12 offers a more capable package while retaining a $549 starting price for the DIY Edition.

Ernest Hemingway

Ernest Hemingway is a contributor at Thecherawchronicle.com, covering a wide range of topics including news, politics, business, technology, sports, entertainment, and lifestyle. He focuses on delivering clear, balanced reporting and useful information that helps readers stay informed about current events and issues that matter to their communities. His work emphasizes accuracy, relevance, and accessibility, bringing readers timely stories and practical insights in a straightforward and engaging way.