Google teamed up with Framework and announced a Modular Chromebook that can be upgraded adding components. The laptop is based on the Framework Laptop, a notebook that opens and repairs easily, with the option to replace any part to improve it. The new edition maintains the same concept, with the difference that it includes ChromeOS and has the full support of Google.
In terms of specifications, the Framework Chromebook Edition features a 13.5-inch screen with a resolution of 2256 x 1504 pixels (3:2). Inside we find a Intel Core i5-1240P processor quad-core, Intel Iris Xe GPU, 8 GB of RAM and a 256 GB NVMe SSD.
One of the advantages of the Chromebook is the Framework expansion card systemwhich enables add the ports you need and place them on the side you prefer. Users can add USB-C, USB-A, HDMI, DisplayPort, Ethernet, or a MicroSD card slot. Ports are small expansion cards that they slide into bays located on the sides and they are plug and play.
Components are mounted on a recycled aluminum chassis that weighs just 1.3 kg and has a thickness of 15.85 mm. Opening and repairing your Chromebook is as easy as picking up a screwdriver included in the box. Unlike other notebooks, almost all hardware, including the motherboard and processor, is user replaceable.
The Framework Chromebook Edition allows you to replace all its components
Each piece includes a QR code that, when scanned, sends the user to a support website with the installation guide. Some components, such as the screen frame, can be exchanged without the need for tools, since they are magnetic. The Chromebook Framework includes Titan C security chip and a switch that disables the camera and microphone at the hardware level for total privacy.
The concept is interesting not only from a modular point of view. Framework was founded on the ideals of the right to repair and its laptops allow to change all its components. For the Chromebook, Google offers up to eight years of support for updateswhich guarantees that we can change — at least once — the processor.
We designed Framework Laptop Chromebook Edition to maximize longevity and minimize impact on the planet. We reduce resource extraction and e-waste entering the environment by designing durable, repairable products, enabling ways to reuse modules, and leveraging recycled materials in our manufacturing process.
Framework
The Framework Chromebook Edition has a price that lives up to its specifications: $999. Its creators claim that with the base configuration you can multitask and run heavy loads of Chrome. is offered support for Android apps and Steam game playback with ChromeOS Alpha, although the latter only applies to titles that do not require a dedicated GPU.
At the moment it is only available for reservation in the United States and Canada with a delivery date scheduled for December. Those who are not interested in the Chromebook will be able to purchase a version with Windows 11 and similar specifications for $1,049.