Framework has updated its Framework Laptop 12 with Intel Core Series 3 chips, bringing efficiency improvements similar to those in the Framework Laptop 13 Pro. The compact 12.2-inch laptop now offers optional backlit keyboard and fingerprint reader, addressing key omissions from the original model.

Pre-built configurations feature Core 5 or Core 7 chips paired with 16GB or 32GB of RAM respectively. Framework claims the Core 5 model delivers 70 percent better battery life while streaming Netflix compared to the previous Core i5 version. The laptop supports Thunderbolt 4 on two of its four hot-swappable Expansion Cards and faster DDR5 RAM, though the display remains unchanged.

Responding to strong Linux adoption—over 80 percent of original Laptop 12 owners run Linux—Framework now offers the new model pre-installed with Fedora, with Windows 11 as a $100 upgrade. The DIY edition starts at $549 in five colors, while pre-built Linux configurations begin at $699 in green. Pre-orders are open with shipping slated for October.