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● Covered by 2 sources · 2 reportsLow impact2 neutral

Framework Laptop 12 updated with Intel Core Series 3 chips and hardware upgrades

🔄 Updated 13h ago — new reporting from The Verge
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Key points

  • Framework Laptop 12 now features Intel Core Series 3 chips.
  • New models include Thunderbolt 4 support and DDR5 RAM.
  • Optional backlit keyboard and fingerprint reader are available.
  • Battery life improved, with Core 5 model showing 70% better Netflix streaming.
  • Linux (Fedora) is now a pre-installed option for the Laptop 12.
  • Framework Laptop 12 base model starts at $699.
  • The new base model is $100 less than the previous version's launch price.
  • Preorders are open now, with first deliveries expected in October.
  • The base configuration is only available in green.
  • The base configuration includes an Intel Core 3 304 CPU, 8GB RAM, and 512GB storage.
  • Linux Fedora 44 KDE Plasma is preloaded on the base model.
  • 80% of Laptop 12 owners already run Linux.
  • Windows 11 Home increases the price by $100.

Framework Laptop 12 Receives Core Series 3 Update

Framework updated its Laptop 12, integrating Intel's latest Core Series 3 chips. This update follows the introduction of a new high-end 13-inch model. The new Laptop 12 also offers an optional backlit keyboard and fingerprint reader, enhancing its hardware capabilities.

Performance and Efficiency Improvements

The new Intel Core Series 3 chips bring efficiency improvements to the Laptop 12. Framework states that the Core 5 model demonstrates 70 percent better battery life during Netflix streaming compared to the original Laptop 12's Core i5 version. Pre-built configurations are available with Core 3, Core 5, or Core 7 chips, and RAM options from 8GB to 32GB, with up to 48GB available as an upgrade.

Connectivity and Features

The updated Intel chips enable support for Thunderbolt 4 on two of the Laptop 12's four hot-swappable Expansion Cards and faster DDR5 RAM. While the 12.2-inch display remains unchanged, users can configure the laptop with a backlit keyboard and a fingerprint reader. These upgrades are included by default in pre-built Core 5 and Core 7 models running Linux.

Linux Pre-installation Option

Framework now offers the Laptop 12 with Fedora pre-installed, recognizing that over 80 percent of original Laptop 12 owners use Linux. Windows 11 is available as an upgrade. Framework has also provided the new hardware to other Linux distributions to ensure compatibility upon shipment.

Pricing and Availability

The Framework Laptop 12 starts at $699 for a pre-built Linux configuration in green. A DIY version is available for $549 in various colors including black, gray, light purple, pink, or green. Pre-orders are currently open, with shipping planned to commence soon.

Updates

🕒 2026-08-19 · new reporting from The Verge
  • Framework Laptop 12 base model starts at $699.
  • The new base model is $100 less than the previous version's launch price.
  • Preorders are open now, with first deliveries expected in October.
  • The base configuration is only available in green.
  • The base configuration includes an Intel Core 3 304 CPU, 8GB RAM, and 512GB storage.
  • Linux Fedora 44 KDE Plasma is preloaded on the base model.
  • 80% of Laptop 12 owners already run Linux.
  • Windows 11 Home increases the price by $100.

✨ This summary was generated by AI from the outlets' reporting listed below. It is not independently verified and may contain errors — check the original sources. How BrevFeed works →

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How outlets covered it

Framework updated its 12-inch convertible laptop with Intel Core Series 3 processors, expanded hardware customization options, and a pre-built Linux configuration. The base model now starts at $699, which is $100 less than the previous version's launch price. This update provides new internal hardware capabilities and a more affordable entry point for users.

Framework updated its Laptop 12 with Intel Core Series 3 chips, Thunderbolt 4 support, DDR5 RAM, and optional backlit keyboard and fingerprint reader. These changes improve battery life and performance, making the modular laptop more competitive.