Framework Laptop 12 gets Intel Wildcat Lake option, starts at $549
Framework has updated its compact 12.2-inch convertible Laptop 12. The main change is the replacement of Intel Core 13th Gen processors with new chips on the Intel Wildcat Lake architecture (Core Series 3). The device also gained Wi-Fi 7 support, Thunderbolt 4 in all expansion slots, and DDR5-6400 memory.
New Intel Wildcat Lake Processors
Instead of the older Core i5-1334U, the lineup now features three options based on the Xe3 architecture: Core 3 304, Core 5 320, and Core 7 350. All are manufactured using Intel's 18A process. The chips feature P-class (Cougar Cove) and E-class (Darkmont) cores: the Core 3 304 has one high-performance core and four low-power ones, while the higher-end models have two P-cores and four LP-E cores.
Maximum boost clocks range from 4.3 GHz to 4.8 GHz. The graphics block is built on the Xe3 architecture: the Core 3 304 has one compute core, while Core 5 and Core 7 have two. Notably, despite using Intel Arc (Xe3) graphics, the processors do not receive official Intel Arc branding.
Performance is limited by power settings: base power is 15W, with a peak of up to 35W. The manufacturer states that switching from Core i5-1334U to Core 5 320 increased battery life by 70% in a 4K Netflix streaming test.
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