We’re excited to announce the new Framework Laptop 12 with Intel’s latest Core Series 3 processors, Thunderbolt 4, Wi-Fi 7, options for fingerprint reader and backlit keyboard, and for the first time, a pre-built version with Fedora Linux preloaded.
  • SatyrSack@quokk.auEnglish
    4·
    2 months ago

    The new US English backlit keyboard comes standard on Fedora pre-built Core 5 and Core 7 systems, and is an option on any DIY Edition. On the backlit keyboard, we’ve also switched to a reprogrammable keyboard controller using open source ZMK firmware. We’ll be moving to that controller and firmware on each language of non-backlit keyboard over time.

    One of my biggest complaints about the Framework 12 was the non-backlit keyboard (which was not that big of a complaint, really), so it is nice to see them address that. It is neat that they made it ZMK, as well.

    EDIT: I am not seeing the new keyboard on their marketplace. I assumed there would be a “preorder” available like they usually do, but they only have the 1st generation versions of the keyboard on the marketplace.

    EDIT: Preorders are live now. Same price as generation 1. Interestingly, while the listing does mention a backlight in multiple places, it does have this paragraph:

    Made of 30% post-consumer recycled plastic resin, the Input Cover Kit comes in a variety of layouts and languages. This kit includes a pre-assembled Keyboard and Touchpad. It features full-size keyboard with 19mm key spacing, 1.5mm key travel, and a non-backlit layout.

    Note the “non-backlit layout” part at the end. I assume that paragraph is just a mistaken holdover from the 1st generation listing.

  • sbeak@sopuli.xyzEnglish
    1·
    2 months ago

    Honestly it looks awesome, especially if you have an old FW12 or existing RAM + storage (since that can double the price of the FW, yikes I hope the bubble pops soon!)

    It’s not just a chip bump it looks like, there’s also the backlit keyboard (+ ZMK!), fingerprint reader (huge!), a preinstalled Fedora option, and two TB4 ports! Battery life has also improved a lot with Wildcat Lake, which is always nice

    Definitely considering the FW12 as my new laptop, since I love that fun colours. The display is still the same though, it’s the only thing keeping me to my old Asus laptop (which has a fantastic OLED, but a now very degraded battery and aging performance, not to mention how it’s a nightmare to try and open up. Supports Linux super well though which is nice!)