Framework Laptop 16 upgrades make it look less like an unfinished prototype

Framework has unveiled updates to its Laptop 16, introducing several enhancements that improve both aesthetics and functionality. While these revisions may not be as groundbreaking as those seen in the recent Framework Laptop 13 Pro, they effectively address user feedback to create a more appealing and efficient workstation. One of the key additions is a new CPU option. The Laptop 16 now features the six-core Ryzen AI 5 340, which is part of the same Ryzen AI 300 family as the processors used in the late-2025 refresh. This new configuration sits below the eight-core Ryzen AI 7 350, allowing the starting price of the Laptop 16 to drop to $1,599 for a pre-built model and $1,249 for the DIY Edition—down from $1,799 and $1,499, respectively. However, rising costs for RAM and storage could potentially offset these savings in the future. In addition to the performance upgrades, the Laptop 16 also showcases cosmetic improvements. A new color option, the “Translucent Smoke Gray Bezel,” has been added alongside existing colors such as black, orange, and lavender. More importantly, both the keyboard and trackpad have transitioned to single-piece designs. Previously, users had to assemble these components from multiple modular parts, which often resulted in a somewhat unfinished appearance. The previous design allowed for customization regarding the number pad and trackpad positioning, but it led to a complex assembly process that some users found less than ideal. With the new one-piece keyboard and trackpad options, the Laptop 16 now presents a cleaner and more cohesive look. This is particularly evident with the trackpad, which, unlike the keyboard, was previously only available with spacers that detracted from the overall design. The streamlined updates promise to enhance the user experience while delivering a more polished product.