Framework says LPCAMM2 supplier prices have more than doubled
Framework has announced new pricing and configuration changes for the Framework Laptop 13 Pro after receiving an unexpected cost update from its LPCAMM2 supplier. The company says the new module prices are more than double the cost o f its previous inventory.
Framework had expected LPCAMM2 prices to increase by a low-to-mid double-digit percentage between the second and third quarters. The final supplier quote went far beyond that estimate, and Framework says absorbing the full increase would create a financial risk for the company.
Some preorders will receive less memory
Framework has enough 64GB modules to cover Laptop 13 Pro preorders through Batch 4 and Mainboard orders through Batch 7. Later orders configured with 64GB have been changed to 32GB and will be charged the original 32GB module price.
© Framework The remaining 32GB modules have been allocated to DIY Edition and Mainboard preorders through the same batches. Later 32GB orders in those categories have been changed to 16GB at the original 16GB price. Prebuilt configurations originally ordered with 32GB have not been changed because Framework does not currently offer a matching 16GB version.
New orders also face higher prices
Framework has increased LPCAMM2 pricing for newly placed preorders, although it says the new retail prices remain below its latest sourcing costs. The 16GB option remains at its previous price for now, but another increase is expected after the lower-cost inventory is depleted.
© Framework System and Mainboard prices have also been adjusted due to upcoming Intel Core Ultra Series 3 processor increases, higher Windows licensing fees (great timing Microsoft!) and other silicon costs. Framework has reduced prices for 48GB DDR5 modules, the WD_BLACK SN850X 8TB and WD Blue SN7100 1TB, while raising prices for 16GB DDR5, SN850X 1TB and SN7100 4TB options.
As someone already pointed out, the memory shortage will put added pressure on niche laptop brands such as Framework. Its laptops were never cheap to begin with, but these increases may make the systems difficult or impossible to justify for new buyers. Also, choosing LPCAMM2 was also one of the weakest design decisions, as it heavily limits the number of available suppliers.
Source: Framework
