Framework Unveils eGPU Kit, Laptop 16 Upgrades, and New Accessories at Launch Event

Framework’s Laptop 13 Pro may have been the centerpiece of today’s launch, but the company introduced several other significant updates, including quality-of-life improvements for the Laptop 16, a new wireless keyboard, a carrying case, and a highly requested 10GB Ethernet expansion card.

Laptop 16 Gets Major Upgrades and New Modules

The top deck of the Laptop 16 remains highly customizable, allowing users to install various modules alongside the keyboard and trackpad. However, Framework CEO Nirav Patel acknowledged a common user frustration: the side-by-side placement of modules can trap arm hairs, leading to unintended hair removal when users move their arms. To resolve this issue, the company is releasing a new all-in-one trackpad and all-in-one keyboard cover.

Additionally, the trackpad has been upgraded to match the haptic model found in the Laptop 13 Pro. The Laptop 16 is also now available with a lower-cost Ryzen 5 340 mainboard, providing a more affordable entry-level option.

Framework Introduces eGPU Kit with OCuLink Dev Kit

At the rear of the Laptop 16 is an expansion module slot designed to hold either a blank unit or discrete graphics hardware. Last year, Framework launched a module featuring an RTX 5070, and now the company is exploring its use for external GPUs (eGPUs).

The OCuLink Dev Kit is a prototype board using OCuLink 8i, which connects directly to the mainboard via native PCIe lanes. Users with an existing blank module won’t need to purchase a replacement—the OCuLink board can be inserted into the slots of the current module.

The kit includes an OCuLink Dock, enabling users to install off-the-shelf PCIe cards such as GPUs, 100Gb Ethernet modules, and video capture cards. This effectively transforms the Laptop 16 into a desktop-like system. However, Framework has stated that the hardware is not yet ready for mass production, with more details expected later this year.

New Wireless Keyboard and Laptop Sleeve Announced

Framework CEO Nirav Patel highlighted a common frustration among users: outdated living room keyboards, such as the long-standing Logitech models. Inspired by this, the company developed its own wireless keyboard, which leverages the same high-quality hardware found in the Framework Laptop 12. The keyboard is designed for all-in-one use and was brought to market after the team observed users repurposing the Framework Desktop as a living room PC.

Additionally, Framework introduced a new laptop sleeve featuring extra pockets for storing spare expansion cards.

"There’s one living room keyboard that everyone owns, that Logitech keyboard they haven’t updated in 15 years," said Patel. "I’ve got two of them, polled the team, and a bunch of them all have the same keyboard."