Will Framework Adopt Snapdragon Processors? Not Yet, But the Door Isn’t Closed
If history is any indication, Framework will likely introduce a Qualcomm Snapdragon-based laptop at some point—but not right now. The company remains focused on its latest lineup, including the Framework Desktop, the updated Framework Laptop 13, and the new Framework Laptop 12.
A Non-Committal Response, But Past Trends Suggest Interest
At the launch event, Framework CEO Nirav Patel was asked about the possibility of a Snapdragon X-based Framework Mainboard, given the growing importance of battery life alongside performance in modern laptops. However, Patel remained non-committal, preferring to keep the focus on the company’s current products. Notably, the gaming-oriented Framework Laptop 16 didn’t receive major updates either, aside from the addition of a specialized key.
Still, there are signs that Framework is open to alternative architectures. The company was one of the first to introduce the DeepComputing RISC-V Mainboard, which can be installed in the mainstream Framework Laptop 13. This niche processor—the StarFive JH7110 with four SiFive U74 RISC-V cores—doesn’t natively support Windows and remains an outlier in the broader PC market. However, Framework has shown willingness to experiment with non-traditional platforms, having already released mainboards with Intel and AMD processors.
This suggests that Framework is closely monitoring the Windows on Arm space, and it wouldn’t be surprising if the company eventually adopted a Snapdragon X or even an Nvidia-designed Arm-based CPU. But for now, there’s no official word on such a development.
Tariffs: A Growing Concern for Framework?
Another major industry issue—tariffs on semiconductors and Chinese imports—was also addressed, albeit without clear-cut answers. The Trump administration has proposed a 25% tariff on imported semiconductors, along with additional levies on various tech products manufactured in China.
For a company like Framework, which relies on a modular, customizable ecosystem, this could pose a significant challenge. However, Patel reassured that Framework was built with these trade difficulties in mind.
“Right from the start, we built our supply chain from scratch, knowing that international trade and international logistics were going to continue to get more and more difficult,” Patel said.
Framework’s manufacturing partner, Compal, has a facility in Taiwan, where assembly takes place. While Patel admitted that some individual modules could be affected by tariffs, he emphasized that Framework isn’t planning immediate price increases—unlike Acer, which has already announced a 10% hike in laptop prices.
Conclusion: A Waiting Game for Arm Adoption
For now, Framework isn’t ready to commit to Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X chips—but its history of adopting alternative architectures suggests that an Arm-based laptop is a real possibility down the line. Meanwhile, the company continues to navigate global trade uncertainties, keeping prices stable despite potential tariff impacts.
