Framework has announced a significant pricing adjustment for its upcoming Laptop 13 Pro series, citing a sharp, unforeseen increase in the cost of LPCAMM2 memory modules. Chief Executive Officer Nirav Patel stated that the company’s primary supplier raised module costs to more than double their previous levels, leaving the firm in a position where absorbing the expense would threaten its financial stability. The price hikes specifically impact the Intel Core Ultra Series 3 configurations of the laptop, while versions utilizing AMD Ryzen AI 300 processors remain unaffected as they continue to use standard SO-DIMM memory.
The company, known for its modular, repairable hardware, is now restructuring its pre-order fulfillment to manage limited inventory. According to a company blog post authored by Patel, Framework currently possesses enough 64GB LPCAMM2 modules to satisfy pre-orders through Batch 4 for laptops and Batch 7 for mainboards. For customers with configurations exceeding these batches, the company is automatically adjusting orders to use 32GB modules at the original price point. Similarly, for DIY Edition and mainboard pre-orders beyond the specified batches, 32GB configurations are being swapped for 16GB modules, again at the original price for the smaller capacity.
Supply Chain Volatility and Adjusted Costs
The shift in memory pricing arrives as Framework navigates a broader, volatile landscape for PC components. While the company has managed to secure cost reductions for specific components—such as 48GB DDR5 modules and certain 8TB and 1TB SSDs—these savings are offset by rising costs for 16GB DDR5 modules and other high-capacity storage drives. Patel noted that the company is also facing increased expenses related to Intel Core Ultra X7 and X9 chips, as well as rising Windows licensing fees.
For new orders, the financial impact is substantial. The price for 32GB LPCAMM2 modules has increased from $439 to $800. The cost for 64GB modules has seen an even sharper rise, moving from $849 to $1,600. Framework has committed to honoring the original pricing for customers who have already placed pre-orders, even if those specific components experience subsequent price increases. Conversely, if a component’s cost decreases before a pre-order is fulfilled, the company intends to pass those savings on to the customer by lowering the final charge.
Operational Strategy and Future Availability
Framework is currently attempting to maintain transparency with its user base regarding these supply chain hurdles. While the company maintains a stock of 16GB LPCAMM2 modules priced at $239, Patel warned that this price will eventually rise once current inventory is exhausted. The decision to prioritize existing pre-orders by down-configuring memory capacities is an effort to minimize the immediate financial burden on customers who have already committed to their purchases.
The company has not yet adjusted pre-built configurations that originally contained 32GB of memory for the Core X7 Ultra model, noting that it currently lacks a 16GB pre-built option for that specific tier. Patel indicated that the company plans to introduce a 16GB configuration for the X7 series at a later date. This strategy reflects the ongoing challenges of maintaining a modular, high-performance product line in an environment where specific silicon and memory costs remain highly unpredictable.
Timeline for Shipments
The first batch of pre-orders for the Framework Laptop 13 Pro is scheduled to begin shipping in July. As the company works through these logistical adjustments, it continues to provide updates via its official company blog. Customers with pending orders are encouraged to check their account dashboards for specific configuration changes or status updates. Further information regarding the availability of future configurations or potential price changes will be communicated through the company’s official channels as supply chain data evolves.
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