# **Framework Laptop 13 Receives Ryzen AI 300 Upgrade and Retro Style**
The Framework Laptop 13, celebrated for its modular and repairable construction, is set to undergo another major enhancement. This time around, the company is unveiling a new motherboard that incorporates AMD’s latest **Ryzen AI 300-series processors**, along with a revamped keyboard and a charming **’90s-inspired translucent plastic design**. These modifications are intended to improve both performance and aesthetic appeal while upholding the laptop’s foundational principles of **upgradeability and sustainability**.
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## **New Performance Enhancement with Ryzen AI 300**
Framework has disclosed that its **pioneering repairable laptop**, the **Framework Laptop 13**, will now feature **AMD’s Ryzen AI 300-series processors**. This signifies the device’s second AMD-sourced motherboard, succeeding the **Ryzen 7040 refresh that took place in late 2023**.
### **Processor Selections and Pricing**
The latest motherboards are accessible for **preorder now** and are expected to start shipping in **April 2025**. Customers can select from various configurations:
– **Pre-built system** (with OS, storage, and RAM): **Starting at $1,099**
– **DIY kit** (allowing users to add their own components): **Starting at $899**
– **Standalone motherboard upgrade** (available for current Framework Laptop 13 users): **Starting at $449**
Framework will provide **six-core and eight-core Ryzen AI 300 processors** for entry-level configurations, possibly the **Ryzen AI 5 340** and **Ryzen AI 7 350**, both featuring **integrated Radeon 840M and 860M GPUs**.
For those aiming for **gaming capabilities**, the **high-end Ryzen AI 9 HX 370** is an option. It boasts:
– **12 CPU cores**
– **Radeon 890M GPU with 16 cores**
– **Remarkable AI capabilities with an integrated NPU**
Although this chip has demonstrated **excellent performance in other systems**, Framework’s adaptation might run slightly slower due to its incorporation of **socketed DDR5 memory** as opposed to soldered RAM. Nonetheless, this trade-off is consistent with Framework’s dedication to **repairability and upgradeability**.
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## **Enhancements in USB-C Ports and Expansion**
One of the **prominent criticisms** concerning the earlier Ryzen-based Framework Laptop was that **not all USB-C ports were compatible with the same expansion cards**. The new motherboard **addresses some of these concerns**:
– **Two rear USB-C ports** now support **full 40Gbps USB4 speeds**.
– **Two front USB-C ports** are limited to **10Gbps USB 3.2**.
– **All four ports now include display output capabilities**, boosting external monitor functionality.
While this amendment does not fully resolve the **port inconsistency**, it enhances the laptop’s **customization and usability**.
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## **First Framework Laptop to Integrate Microsoft’s Copilot+ AI Features**
The new Ryzen AI 300 motherboard is **the first Framework board compliant with Microsoft’s Copilot+ PC criteria**. This enables support for **sophisticated AI functionalities in Windows 11**, which includes:
– **Windows Recall** (currently in preview)
– **On-device AI capabilities**
– **A neural processing unit (NPU) featuring at least 40 TOPS (trillion operations per second)**
While earlier Framework motherboards (Ryzen 7040 and Intel Meteor Lake) also included **NPUs**, this is the **first one potent enough** to satisfy Microsoft’s **Copilot+ standards**.
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## **Design and Functional Enhancements**
In tandem with the motherboard update, Framework is unveiling **various design and accessory modifications** to elevate the user experience.
### **An Enhanced Keyboard**
Framework is debuting a **second-generation keyboard** that maintains the **1.5mm key travel** but enhances the **stability of larger keys** like the **Shift and Spacebar**. This reduces **buzzing sounds when the speakers are set to high volume**.
For consumers opting for a **pre-built Windows laptop**, the keyboard will now feature **Microsoft’s Copilot key**. Alternatively, DIY users can choose a **platform-agnostic version** showcasing **Framework’s gear logo instead of the Windows key**.
### **Retro-Themed Translucent Plastic Bezels and Accessories**
Embracing **’90s tech nostalgia**, Framework is rolling out **translucent bezels and USB-C expansion cards** in **purple, green, and black**. These will complement the existing **solid-color orange, green, purple, and red expansion cards** available in Framework’s store.
This aesthetic update empowers users to **tailor their laptop’s appearance**, reminiscent of classic **Apple iMac G3s and Game Boy Color consoles**.
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## **Framework Continues to Cater to Older Models**
In spite of the new Ryzen AI 300 upgrade, Framework will persist in selling
