Framework
Framework business and news from across the web.
Framework's new dev kit means you can jam a full desktop GPU into the back of its 16-inch laptopFramework is developing a dev kit for its 16-inch laptop that allows users to connect a full desktop graphics card externally. This new system utilizes OCuLink technology, offering a less performance-degraded connection compared to Thunderbolt or USB4, and aims to provide genuine upgradeability for laptop gaming hardware.
Final Fantasy? GTA? Nope, It's Pokemon Bugging Out on S... | TAGSeveral gaming news items are covered, including a bug in Pokemon Champions on the Nintendo Switch that requires undocking the system for proper resolution, the anime movie ChaO's unique take on The Little Mermaid, and Framework's concerns about the future of personal computing. Other topics include Marathon's high development budget, the possibility of Link speaking in the Legend of Zelda movie, and discussions around Grand Theft Auto 6's potential delay and pricing. Additionally, Amazon is ending support for older Kindles, a guide for Pokemon Champions' Pokédex is available, and reviews for the Epomaker HE68 Lite keyboard and Final Fantasy 14's upcoming expansion hints are discussed. Finally, Rhythm Heaven Groove has a confirmed summer release date, and Rust 2 is confirmed to not be in development.
RAM spot prices are down by 5%, though they did spike by well over 2000% this past yearSpot prices for RAM have recently decreased by approximately 5%, following a significant spike of over 2000% in the past year, largely driven by the AI industry's demand. Despite this minor drop, consumer prices are unlikely to fall substantially soon, with projections suggesting affordable RAM might not be available until 2028. Some industry leaders express concern about potential bankruptcies and the future of personal computing due to the ongoing memory crisis.
Framework tease new hardware and something big for Linux tooFramework is teasing new hardware and significant developments for Linux users, with an event scheduled for April 21st. The company is emphasizing personal computing ownership against industry trends towards subscriptions and AI-driven resource consumption. Teasers include Linux distribution logos and the iconic Tux mascot, suggesting a strong focus on the open-source operating system.
Framework: 'There is a very real scenario in which personal computing as we know it is dead'Framework founder Nirav Patel believes personal computing as we know it is at risk due to rising component costs and the shift towards an AI-first world. He suggests the industry is broken and that Framework was founded to fix it. The company is hosting a "Next Gen" event on April 21 to unveil new products.
God of War Minigames Return? Mario's Prepping His Own A... | TAGThis article rounds up various gaming news including a Nintendo Switch bundle deal for Super Mario Galaxy, the studio head of State of Decay 3 clarifying that zombie animals from the reveal trailer are scrapped, and predictions of further memory price increases. It also touches on the upcoming The Backrooms movie, discussions about the return of sex minigames in God of War remakes, and a new game called Samson: A Tyndalston Story that aims to fill the Grand Theft Auto 6 itch.
Framework says stabilising memory prices are a 'temporary reprieve' and there are more cost increases to come…Framework CEO Nirav Patel warns that recent stabilizations in memory prices are a temporary reprieve, with further cost increases expected through 2026. While some DDR5 prices remain unchanged for now, Framework is already seeing higher costs for SSDs and LPDDR5x, necessitating price adjustments on certain configurations. The company notes that the AI industry's demand significantly influences memory market volatility.
Framework becomes a KDE Patron helping to fund open sourceHardware vendor Framework has become a KDE Patron, providing financial support to the open-source Plasma desktop environment. Framework founder Nirav Patel expressed excitement about supporting KDE's efforts, while KDE President Aleix Pol highlighted the alignment of Framework's commitment to repairability with KDE's values for a sustainable industry.- RAMaggedon not expected to ease this year as IDC cuts 2026 PC market forecast againThe International Data Corporation has again lowered its forecast for the PC market in 2026, now predicting an 11.6 percent drop in global shipments due to ongoing memory shortages. Research manager Jitesh Ubrani stated that these shortages are expected to persist well into 2027, with prices unlikely to return to 2025 levels until 2028. This situation is already impacting major companies like HP, Samsung, Valve, and Framework.
If you're thinking about buying a Framework PC or laptop with 2 TB-plus of storage 'now is the time to do…Framework CEO Nirav Patel announced that the company is passing on increased costs for RAM and SSDs to consumers, leading to price hikes on system memory and some storage configurations. Patel advised customers looking for large storage capacities, such as 2TB, 4TB, and 8TB SSDs, to purchase them soon before current inventory with lower pricing is depleted.
This creator shoved a Framework inside of a 2006 MacBook: 'A reimagined classic, that's only a little bit…A creator known as Edoogg has successfully integrated a Framework motherboard into a 2006 MacBook, creating a unique hardware modification. The project, which took three months, involved extensive custom work, including 3D modeling and soldering, to achieve a functional, albeit 'janky,' reimagined classic.
"Creativity is the key": how PC hardware's smaller manufacturers are navigating the RAM shortage disasterSmaller PC hardware manufacturers are navigating the current RAM shortage by using less memory in their products or leveraging their unique market position. Companies like Commodore International with the C64 Ultimate and Panic with the Playdate are less affected due to lower RAM requirements, while Framework utilizes a modular approach and direct supplier contact to manage component sourcing. Despite these strategies, some firms like the Pi Foundation have had to increase prices, and the overall outlook suggests the shortage, driven by AI demand, could persist for several more years.