Arvind VenkataramaniJul 12, 2025
Charlie Stross
This is really neat product design—the antithesis of most post-2010 "no user-serviceable parts inside" design.
https://urbanists.social/@markstos/114841399983457180
Mark Stosberg (@[email protected])

Attached: 1 video The Framework 16 laptop detects when it's booted partially assembled. It boots into a special mode to walk you through completing the assembly. The screen updates to reflect your progress and prompt the next step. This requires no tools to complete. Impressive! Watch: @[email protected] #Framework #FrameworkLaptop #Framework16 #Linux #Video

Urbanists.Social
Jul 12, 2025 at 9:49pmWeb
Show threadcliffleJul 12, 2025
@cstross it is very neat, though (having owned one for a bit over a year) I'd probably wait for a future version with a stronger display assembly. Mine is slowly destroying itself.
Show threadCharlie StrossJul 12, 2025
@cliffle I'm still mainly Mac-based for productivity, *but* I am keeping a very close eye on Framework (b/c I think there's a high probability of Apple enshittifying very fast—or "even faster" depending on your opinion of Apple—once Tim Cook retires).
Show threadcliffleJul 12, 2025

@cstross yeah, that's the path I followed in a different year. I love the ethos but may wind up back on Thinkpads, since it's important to me that my computer actually work, and not e.g. wake up from sleep in my backpack and run its own battery down. 🙁

I'm hoping they'll release some fixed parts (because they can do that!) and fix the issue. No word so far.

Show threadJarek KopećJul 12, 2025
@cstross this is my next laptop!
Show threadHugo MillsJul 12, 2025
@cstross They also have all the screw-holes numbered in the order that you do them up. And every removable component has a QR code on it that takes you to the online installation instructions and video for that component.
Show threadAlan BellinghamJul 12, 2025

@cstross You know, I've never thought of trying to boot it without all the parts assembled. I mean, what sort of person would want to do that?

And yet, I'm so impressed that they thought to have it check to see if the bits are attached, and to give suitable prompts. It makes sense if the user thinks it's all attached, and it isn't

I do wonder what happens without the screen though

Show threadBrad BennerJul 12, 2025
@cstross I have a Framework 13 that I've owned for a little over a year and I absolutely love it! It's my daily driver. Had a bit of a problem with the original mainboard but replacing it was almost too easy.
Show threadanathemaJul 12, 2025
@cstross I can't help but imagine that bursting apart like a Lego model if dropped from a small height
Show threadCharlie StrossJul 13, 2025
@anathema They don't: they break like any other laptop, only then you contact Framework and they send you replacement parts and a screwdriver by courier.
Show threadMichael VilainJul 12, 2025
@cstross I most definitely have Framework envy. When my 2015 Mac laptop dies, it will likely be "obsolete" and Apple won't carry parts to service it. So, I'm looking forward to one day owning a Framework laptop.
Show threadcubeJul 12, 2025
It ships with a really nice screwdriver, too, it's a nice touch. I got the 13" one a couple years ago.
Show threadAnnie GJul 12, 2025
@cstross Nice! And thanks for posting - I had thought about getting one for my next machine, but waited so long I forgot all about the company and just ordered a Tuxedo. So I guess I'll try Framework in 5 or 6 years if they're still around, and then I'll never have to buy another 🤞
Show threadMalcolm HerbertJul 12, 2025
@bignose
Show threadWarren MooreJul 12, 2025
@cstross On that note and on your recommendation, I’ve just finished Rainbows End. Loved it so thank you!
Show threadMark LynchJul 13, 2025
@cstross I bought one earlier this year, installed fedora on it and haven’t looked back. Only grumble is the battery life isn’t great, but I’d rather own it and cope with that than something unmaintainable and which the manufacturer treats as though I’m leasing it from them/as a delivery channel for their spy/ad/crap-ware & AI shite
Show threadKeith WilliamsJul 13, 2025
@cstross Ok. Wow. This is really, really, cool. What amazing innovation that nobody (else) needs and what a wonderful way to showcase the raison d'être of your product!