Laptops - Yanko Design https://www.yankodesign.com Modern Industrial Design News Fri, 03 Oct 2025 17:46:07 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.3 192362883 Apple’s M5 MacBook Pro Just Leaked Through FCC Filings, But There’s a Slight Delay https://www.yankodesign.com/2025/10/03/apples-m5-macbook-pro-just-leaked-through-fcc-filings-but-theres-a-slight-delay/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=apples-m5-macbook-pro-just-leaked-through-fcc-filings-but-theres-a-slight-delay Fri, 03 Oct 2025 19:15:15 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=582585

Apple’s M5 MacBook Pro Just Leaked Through FCC Filings, But There’s a Slight Delay

Apple’s playing coy again, but the FCC just handed us a breadcrumb trail that leads straight to the M5 MacBook Pro. While Tim Cook’s team...
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Apple’s playing coy again, but the FCC just handed us a breadcrumb trail that leads straight to the M5 MacBook Pro. While Tim Cook’s team stays radio silent on official announcements, regulatory filings have surfaced with model number A3434, a designation that doesn’t match any existing Apple laptop in their current lineup. The timing checks out perfectly with Apple’s usual product cadence, appearing just weeks before what could be a launch announcement. We’re likely looking at late 2025 or early 2026 for availability, which means the hype machine is already spinning at full throttle.

Here’s what makes this filing particularly interesting: it confirms wireless standards testing, but conspicuously leaves out Wi-Fi 7 support that’s expected to debut on the M5 iPad Pro models. Whether that’s a deliberate hardware choice, a testing limitation, or Apple segmenting features across product lines remains unclear. But it raises questions about Apple’s connectivity strategy across their M5 ecosystem, especially when the iPhone 17 already shipped with the N1 chip that enables Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and enhanced AirDrop functionality. The inconsistency feels odd for a company that usually maintains feature parity across flagship devices.

Designer: Apple

The actual hardware refresh appears to be evolution rather than revolution. Don’t expect a dramatic redesign after the 2021 overhaul that brought back MagSafe, upgraded the display with ProMotion and mini-LED backlighting, and added back the HDMI port and SD card slot that professionals actually wanted. Apple’s sticking with that form factor, which makes sense given how well received it was after years of that questionable Touch Bar experiment. The real story lives inside the chassis with the M5 silicon, reportedly delivering a 15 to 25 percent performance bump over the M4 while improving energy efficiency. That’s the kind of generational leap that keeps Apple Silicon competitive with whatever Intel and AMD are throwing at the wall.

Apple’s planning the full spectrum of configurations with standard M5, M5 Pro, and M5 Max variants, following the established playbook. Development codenames J714 and J716 have surfaced in supply chain reports, pointing to at least two distinct MacBook Pro models in the pipeline. The M5 Max will likely pack the same ridiculous core counts we’ve come to expect, probably pushing 40 GPU cores and unified memory configurations up to 128GB for the pros running demanding workloads. Thunderbolt 5 support is expected on higher-end models, doubling bandwidth to 80 Gbps bidirectional, which matters significantly for anyone daisy-chaining multiple 8K displays or working with massive RAW video files.

The release timing breaks from Apple’s recent October pattern for MacBook Pro refreshes. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman notes that mass production is “nearing” but not yet in full swing, suggesting a potential delay into early 2026. Apple pulled this same move with the M2 Pro and M2 Max MacBook Pros, launching them in January 2023 instead of the expected October 2022 window. Supply chain constraints, chip yields, or simply wanting to space out major product launches could all factor into the decision. The iPhone 17 launch in September already gave Apple its big moment this fall, so pushing the MacBook Pro into Q1 2026 creates another news cycle without cannibalizing holiday sales of existing M4 models.

What remains frustrating is how little has actually leaked beyond these FCC filings and vague performance estimates. No concrete benchmark scores, no detailed specifications on memory bandwidth improvements, nothing about potential changes to the Neural Engine for AI workloads. Apple’s gotten better at plugging leaks, which is great for their controlled narrative but terrible for those of us trying to make informed purchasing decisions. The M4 MacBook Pros are still relatively fresh, having launched less than a year ago, so anyone who bought in recently shouldn’t feel too burned. But if you’ve been holding out with an Intel MacBook Pro or even an M1 generation machine, the M5 refresh represents a compelling four-generation leap that will be immediately noticeable in compile times, export speeds, and battery life.

The post Apple’s M5 MacBook Pro Just Leaked Through FCC Filings, But There’s a Slight Delay first appeared on Yanko Design.

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This DIY Framework 13 Mod Turns a Modern Laptop into a Retro Mechanical Marvel https://www.yankodesign.com/2025/09/15/this-diy-framework-13-mod-turns-a-modern-laptop-into-a-retro-mechanical-marvel/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=this-diy-framework-13-mod-turns-a-modern-laptop-into-a-retro-mechanical-marvel Mon, 15 Sep 2025 16:20:39 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=578560

This DIY Framework 13 Mod Turns a Modern Laptop into a Retro Mechanical Marvel

DIY laptop mods that blend modern hardware with retro aesthetics are having a moment, and it’s easy to understand why. Modern ultrabooks prioritize thinness and...
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DIY laptop mods that blend modern hardware with retro aesthetics are having a moment, and it’s easy to understand why. Modern ultrabooks prioritize thinness and portability over tactile satisfaction, leaving many users longing for the chunky, satisfying keyboards and analog controls that made 1990s laptops feel substantial and purposeful. One ambitious modder has answered that call with something truly special.

The Campus, built by Reddit user flurpyflurples, transforms a Framework 13 into something that looks like it escaped from a 1990s computer lab, complete with all the modern performance you’d expect. The custom-milled aluminum housing is dramatically thicker than the stock Framework, creating space for a gasket-mounted mechanical keyboard that delivers the kind of tactile feedback laptop users haven’t experienced in decades.

Designer: flurples

What makes the Campus particularly compelling are the three rotary encoders integrated into the chassis, providing analog control over volume, screen brightness, and keyboard backlight. These physical dials offer a hands-on experience that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly direct compared to fumbling through software controls or hunting for function key combinations. The satisfying click and smooth rotation of each encoder adds a layer of interaction that modern laptops have completely abandoned.

The builder made thoughtful ergonomic adjustments throughout the design process. The Framework 13’s trackpad gets repositioned off-center to better align with natural hand placement when typing, while the mechanical keyboard itself is slightly slimmer in depth than the original, eliminating the half-height function row to create more space for comfortable finger positioning and wrist placement.

Despite the dramatic visual transformation, the Campus maintains compatibility with Framework’s modular expansion card system, preserving the flexibility that makes the platform so appealing to tinkerers. The increased chassis thickness also creates potential for a larger battery, though the current build prioritizes the mechanical keyboard experience over extended runtime. The aluminum construction should improve thermal management compared to thinner designs.

Community response has been overwhelmingly enthusiastic, with Reddit users immediately suggesting additional modifications like optical drives, trackpoints, and even coffee makers. The project taps into a deep nostalgia for laptops that felt like serious tools rather than disposable consumer electronics. Comments range from genuine purchasing interest to playful suggestions about cramming even more retro features into the generous chassis space.

The practical trade-offs are obvious but intentional. The Campus is significantly heavier and thicker than any modern ultrabook, making it less suitable for daily commuting or frequent travel. However, for users who value typing experience and tactile interaction over portability, these compromises feel worthwhile. The aluminum construction and mechanical switches should provide durability that outlasts several generations of disposable laptops.

The Campus stands in stark contrast to the stock Framework 13, which emphasizes thinness, portability, and modern minimalism. While both laptops share modular DNA, they serve completely different philosophies about what a laptop should prioritize. The Campus joins projects like the MNT Reform in pushing open hardware boundaries, but its combination of mechanical keyboard, multiple rotary encoders, and familiar laptop ergonomics feels uniquely practical.

Projects like the Campus demonstrate how open hardware platforms can enable entirely new approaches to laptop design. The resurgence of interest in mechanical keyboards, analog controls, and substantial build quality suggests that some users are ready to trade portability for satisfaction. The Campus proves that with enough creativity and machining skills, you can have both modern performance and retro tactile pleasure in a single, admittedly chunky package.

The post This DIY Framework 13 Mod Turns a Modern Laptop into a Retro Mechanical Marvel first appeared on Yanko Design.

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This DIY Dock Turns the Lenovo Legion Go Into a True Laptop https://www.yankodesign.com/2025/09/13/this-diy-dock-turns-the-lenovo-legion-go-into-a-true-laptop/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=this-diy-dock-turns-the-lenovo-legion-go-into-a-true-laptop Sat, 13 Sep 2025 13:20:14 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=578028

This DIY Dock Turns the Lenovo Legion Go Into a True Laptop

Handheld gaming PCs have become incredibly capable over the past few years, but they’ve always occupied an awkward middle ground between tablets and laptops. Most...
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Handheld gaming PCs have become incredibly capable over the past few years, but they’ve always occupied an awkward middle ground between tablets and laptops. Most handhelds excel at gaming but struggle with productivity tasks that require extended typing or multitasking, while traditional gaming laptops offer better keyboards and screens but sacrifice the portability and flexibility that makes handhelds appealing in the first place.

The Lenovo Legion Go stands out in this crowded field thanks to its removable controllers that transform it from a handheld console into a Windows tablet. MysteriousAlarm897 on Reddit saw this modularity as an opportunity to push the concept further. His 3D-printed dock essentially turns the Legion Go into a clamshell laptop complete with physical keyboard, extended battery life, and all the ports you need for serious productivity work.

Designer: MysteriousAlarm897

The dock consists of a custom-designed enclosure that houses both the Legion Go and a compact Lenovo multi-device keyboard in a laptop-style configuration. The Legion Go sits in the upper frame at a comfortable viewing angle, while the keyboard nestles into a lower tray with precise cutouts for all essential ports and ventilation. The entire assembly closes like a traditional laptop, protecting both the screen and keyboard during transport while maintaining a surprisingly compact footprint.

What makes this project particularly impressive is the attention to practical details that separate successful DIY projects from interesting experiments. The quick-release mechanism lets you remove the Legion Go in seconds for handheld gaming or tablet use, while strategic port cutouts ensure you can still access USB-C, USB-A, and microSD without removing the device from the dock. The hinge mechanism feels solid and stable, preventing the wobbling that plagues many DIY laptop conversions.

The original version includes an ambitious 190Wh battery pack built from 18650 cells that dramatically extends the Legion Go’s runtime for all-day productivity sessions. The custom PCB supports up to 65W charging and includes safety features and a charging indicator, though the creator admits this version becomes quite heavy for daily carry. Community feedback led to a slimmer version that omits the extra battery, relying on the Legion Go’s internal power while maintaining keyboard benefits.

The project went through ten iterations before reaching its current form, with the creator refining everything from hinge stability to weight distribution based on real-world testing. The final design uses magnetic latches for the cover, requiring 5×2 magnets for secure closure, while the entire dock can be 3D-printed by anyone with access to a printer and files. The iterative process demonstrates the value of community feedback in refining DIY hardware projects.

Community response has been overwhelmingly positive, with users praising the engineering ingenuity and requesting access to the printable files for their own builds. Some have suggested improvements like integrated trackpads, lighter materials, or compatibility with different keyboards, demonstrating how open-source hardware projects evolve through collective input and experimentation from enthusiastic users who understand the potential for further development.

The dock addresses a genuine need for users who want the flexibility of a handheld gaming PC without sacrificing productivity capabilities when needed. Unlike commercial laptop alternatives that require choosing between gaming performance and portability, MysteriousAlarm897’s solution lets you have both in a single, modular system. The Legion Go’s unique removable controller design makes this transformation possible in ways that wouldn’t work with other handhelds.

The post This DIY Dock Turns the Lenovo Legion Go Into a True Laptop first appeared on Yanko Design.

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Lenovo’s ThinkBook VertiFlex Concept at IFA 2025 Solves the Laptop Orientation Problem That’s Frustrated Users for Decades https://www.yankodesign.com/2025/09/04/lenovos-thinkbook-vertiflex-concept-at-ifa-2025-solves-the-laptop-orientation-problem-thats-frustrated-users-for-decades/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=lenovos-thinkbook-vertiflex-concept-at-ifa-2025-solves-the-laptop-orientation-problem-thats-frustrated-users-for-decades Fri, 05 Sep 2025 06:01:29 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=576660

Lenovo’s ThinkBook VertiFlex Concept at IFA 2025 Solves the Laptop Orientation Problem That’s Frustrated Users for Decades

Reviewing lengthy documents, coding on vertical monitors, or scrolling through social media feeds creates the same frustration every day. Your laptop screen forces you into...
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Reviewing lengthy documents, coding on vertical monitors, or scrolling through social media feeds creates the same frustration every day. Your laptop screen forces you into horizontal viewing while the content screams for vertical space. You crane your neck, squint at cramped text, and constantly scroll through information that would fit perfectly if only your screen could rotate. This daily annoyance affects millions of professionals, students, and creators who’ve adapted their workflows around technology’s limitations rather than the other way around.

Designers: Lenovo

At IFA 2025 in Berlin, Lenovo addresses this fundamental mismatch with the most comprehensive product portfolio the company has ever announced at a single event. The “Lenovo ThinkBook VertiFlex Concept” leads an ambitious lineup that includes the 24-core ThinkPad P16 Gen 3 mobile workstation, the groundbreaking 39.7-inch ThinkVision P40WD-40 curved ultrawide display, advanced Thunderbolt 5 smart docks, and an entire ecosystem of AI-powered business solutions. These announcements collectively demonstrate Lenovo’s commitment to “Enabling Smarter AI for All” through hardware that adapts to human workflows rather than forcing adaptation from users.

The VertiFlex Concept represents the first serious attempt to break the orientation paradigm that has defined laptop design since the category’s inception. Social media platforms, coding environments, document editing, and web browsing all benefit from portrait orientation, yet traditional laptops lock users into landscape mode, creating inefficient workflows and ergonomic strain.

VertiFlex Concept: Reimagining Laptop Display Design

The ThinkBook VertiFlex Concept centers on a 14-inch OLED touch display with 2.8K resolution (2880×1800) that pivots seamlessly between landscape and portrait orientations while maintaining the essential laptop form factor. The display delivers 400 nits peak brightness, 100% DCI-P3 color gamut coverage, and Dolby Vision support with a 90Hz adaptive refresh rate that automatically adjusts based on content and orientation.

Core specifications include Intel Core Ultra 7 processors (Series 2) with integrated Arc graphics and dedicated NPU delivering up to 47 TOPS for AI workloads. The system supports up to 32GB LPDDR5X-8533 memory and up to 1TB PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSD storage with dual M.2 slots for expandability. Despite its groundbreaking display technology, the concept maintains remarkable portability credentials with an ultra-slim 17.9mm thickness and lightweight 1.39kg construction.

Connectivity features include two Thunderbolt 4 ports, USB-A 3.2 Gen2, HDMI 2.1, 3.5mm audio jack, and Wi-Fi 7 with Bluetooth 5.4 support. The 65Wh battery provides up to 12 hours of mixed-use battery life, with rapid charging capability reaching 80% in 60 minutes through the included 90W USB-C adapter.

The swiveling mechanism operates through 360 degrees, allowing users to position the display at any angle between orientations without requiring locks or additional mechanisms. The vertical display mode transforms productivity workflows that naturally favor vertical formats, from split-screen multitasking and displaying code to reviewing documents.

The concept’s hardware engineering enables smooth rotation through a precision-balanced hinge system that maintains structural integrity while supporting the display weight across all orientations. Users can transition from horizontal laptop mode for traditional computing to vertical tablet-style orientation for reading, coding, or social media consumption without compromising the keyboard and trackpad functionality.

Advanced connectivity enables seamless integration through Lenovo Smart Connect technology, allowing smartphone tethering for file transfer and phone mirroring functionality while in vertical display mode. The concept incorporates intelligent software that automatically adjusts interface elements when users change orientations, recognizing pivoting and adapting screen layouts, application positioning, and user interface scaling. This software integration prevents the disjointed experience that often accompanies hardware innovation, ensuring the swiveling capability feels like a natural extension of the laptop’s functionality rather than a novelty feature.

ThinkPad P Series: Mobile Workstations Redefined

The newly redesigned ThinkPad P16 Gen 3 delivers unprecedented mobile workstation performance with Intel Core Ultra 200HX series processors featuring up to 24 cores and an integrated NPU for AI processing. This represents a significant leap from typical 8-16 core laptop processors, bringing desktop-class computing power to mobile form factors. The workstation pairs these processors with up to NVIDIA RTX PRO 5000 Blackwell graphics and 24GB VRAM in discrete GPU design, delivering maximum performance for graphics-intensive tasks from complex 3D rendering to AI development workloads.

Lenovo’s complete P Series lineup addresses diverse professional needs across multiple form factors. The ThinkPad P1 Gen 8 combines workstation power with ultra-premium mobility, featuring Intel Core Ultra processors (Series 2) and up to NVIDIA RTX PRO 2000 Blackwell generation graphics for content creators, game developers, and CAD specialists. The ThinkPad P16v Gen 3 offers powerful yet affordable performance with a sleek chassis design featuring 16:10 aspect ratio display, narrow bezels, and high screen-to-body ratio. The ThinkPad P14s Gen 6 and P16s Gen 4 represent the thinnest and lightest mobile workstations in Lenovo’s portfolio, combining premium performance with portability for professionals tackling complex workloads on-the-go.

These workstations integrate with Lenovo AI Developer, a full-stack AI development solution that combines leading open-source tools, AI libraries, and frameworks with superior workstation hardware. The ecosystem enables professionals to build, scale, and secure their AI workflows beyond everyday AI PC tasks to power advanced AI development workloads. Lenovo’s comprehensive AI PC Services portfolio, including AI Fast Start, Care of One, and AI PC Premier Support, helps businesses maximize productivity and achieve faster returns from every AI-ready PC through tailored onboarding, curated toolkits, and expert platform readiness support.

Professional Displays and Connectivity Revolution

The ThinkVision P40WD-40 curved ultrawide display engineers a superior visual experience for serious multitasking with breathtaking 5120×2160 resolution across a 39.7-inch display featuring 21:9 aspect ratio. The monitor delivers reliable color precision and rich contrasts, supported by 98% DCI-P3 color gamut and IPS Black technology, while the 2500R curved screen wraps professionals in immersive visuals for creative work, data analysis, or content consumption. Beyond visual excellence, the ThinkVision P40WD-40 functions as a productivity hub with Thunderbolt 4 one-cable docking solution, DisplayPort outputs, PD3.1 charging up to 140W, and 2.5G RJ45 Ethernet port.

The monitor achieves industry-leading efficiency as the first desktop monitor featuring 24 to 120 Hertz variable refresh rate, using up to 34% less power than ENERGY STAR 8.0 standards through DisplayPort Power Saving technology. This Lenovo-unique feature uses panel replay technology to dynamically adapt refresh rates without compromising visual quality, representing a significant advancement in professional display efficiency.

Lenovo’s new ThinkPad smart docks revolutionize workspace connectivity with cutting-edge Thunderbolt 5 performance. The ThinkPad Thunderbolt 5 Smart Dock 7500 delivers up to 120 Gbps bandwidth, driving up to 3 x 8K @ 60Hz displays plus 1 x 4K @ 60Hz, or ultra-smooth playback with 2 x 4K @ 240Hz and 2 x 4K @ 120Hz, while supporting up to 180W power delivery. The ThinkPad Thunderbolt 4 Smart Dock Gen 2 7500 supports up to 1 x 8K @ 60Hz or dual 4K @ 144Hz displays with up to 100W power delivery, while the ThinkPad USB4 Smart Dock 5500 provides 4x the bandwidth of traditional USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 docks with support for one ultra-crisp 8K display at 60Hz or dual 4K monitors at 144Hz.

Advanced AI Integration and Desktop Solutions

Lenovo’s AI innovation extends beyond mobile workstations to comprehensive desktop solutions and intelligent software platforms. The ThinkCentre neo-Ultra Gen 2 undergoes significant upgrades with NVIDIA RTX 5060 Ti dGPU support, delivering improved AI capability for local LLM deployment and supporting connections to up to 7 displays simultaneously. This compact powerhouse enables local AI computing, machine learning, deep learning, and computer vision applications while maintaining the space-efficient form factor that defines the neo-Ultra series.

The company pilots the Lenovo AI Agent Pilot Program powered by Intel’s AI Assistant Builder, a modular software toolkit designed to help organizations build and deploy protected, on-device generative AI solutions tailored to unique workflows. In a proof of concept developed for IEEE journal editors, the assistant automates time-consuming aspects of peer review processes including manuscript formatting checks, qualified reviewer identification, and reviewer feedback synthesis while maintaining strict privacy requirements and keeping sensitive data local.

Design Innovation and Future Computing Concepts

Lenovo continues driving visual experience innovations through breakthrough concept displays and design evolutions. The NaturaSynth Display proof-of-concept monitor showcases hardware-based zero blue light technology, with LCD panels that mimic natural light illumination and reduce blue light content to under 1% to significantly reduce visual fatigue and enhance overall eye comfort.

The Smart Motion Concept introduces one of the industry’s first smart multi-directional laptop stand concepts, integrating with laptop cameras, microphones, and speakers to deliver auto-facial tracking, voice control, and ergonomic health features. An AI ring enables gesture control of the stand’s movement, creating a comprehensive workspace solution that adapts to user needs through intelligent automation.

The Magic Bay HUD brings the previously conceptual Magic Bay Tiko Pro to limited market availability as a heads-up display that attaches magnetically via Pogo Pin. This always-on HUD offers users a convenient, screen-free way to extend their workspace for intelligent multitasking, ideal for keeping transcription, notes, or notifications off the main screen while integrating seamlessly with Lenovo AI Now assistance.

Comprehensive Ecosystem Strategy

The ThinkPad X9 Aura Edition receives a striking design evolution with a new Glacier White finish available in both 14- and 15-inch sizes, delivering over 40 TOPS performance as a Copilot+ PC powered by Intel Core Ultra processors and Windows 11. Later this year, Lenovo will transition the Aura Edition’s Smart Share experience to the Lenovo Smart Connect app, delivering a more streamlined and unified experience across Lenovo Aura Edition systems with effortless cross-device control and tap-to-share functionality.

The VertiFlex Concept joins this comprehensive ecosystem as part of Lenovo’s systematic exploration of display innovation. Earlier this year, the company brought their ThinkBook Plus Gen 6 Rollable to market at $3,499, transforming from a 14-inch display to a 16.7-inch vertical workspace. While the rollable expanded vertically through mechanical extension, the VertiFlex achieves orientation flexibility through pivoting, addressing completely different user pain points through parallel development approaches.

This demonstrates Lenovo’s systematic exploration of every possible way displays can adapt to human needs rather than forcing humans to adapt to display limitations. The concept’s practical focus and attention to real-world usability suggest development beyond pure research into potential product planning. By questioning the fixed-orientation assumption that has defined laptops since their inception, Lenovo opens possibilities for computing devices that truly adapt to human workflows rather than forcing adaptation from users.

The post Lenovo’s ThinkBook VertiFlex Concept at IFA 2025 Solves the Laptop Orientation Problem That’s Frustrated Users for Decades first appeared on Yanko Design.

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Keycap-shaped Laptop Concept Channels Lofree’s Retro Charm https://www.yankodesign.com/2025/09/03/keycap-shaped-laptop-concept-channels-lofrees-retro-charm/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=keycap-shaped-laptop-concept-channels-lofrees-retro-charm Wed, 03 Sep 2025 17:00:19 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=575853

Keycap-shaped Laptop Concept Channels Lofree’s Retro Charm

There’s something undeniably satisfying about the tactile click of a well-made mechanical keyboard, isn’t there? Lofree has built an entire brand around that feeling, creating...
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There’s something undeniably satisfying about the tactile click of a well-made mechanical keyboard, isn’t there? Lofree has built an entire brand around that feeling, creating retro-inspired keyboards that make typing feel like an event rather than a chore. Their warm color palettes and rounded keycaps have spawned countless desk setup photos and a devoted following among aesthetics enthusiasts who appreciate when technology feels genuinely delightful to use every single day.

Designer Taeyoung Kim apparently shares that appreciation and wondered what would happen if you took Lofree’s design language and applied it to an entire laptop computer. This independent concept design, which has no official connection to the Lofree brand whatsoever, imagines a portable computer that looks and feels like a giant mechanical keycap brought to life. The result is both whimsical and surprisingly thoughtful, challenging our assumptions about what a laptop should look like in today’s market.

Designer: Taeyoung Kim

The concept laptop’s most striking feature is its overall form, which mimics the soft, rounded corners and slightly recessed top surface of a mechanical keyboard keycap with remarkable attention to detail. The designer chose a warm gray body with matte black bezels and orange accents, directly referencing Lofree’s most popular colorways while creating something that feels both nostalgic and contemporary. The matte finish and proposed materials, including ABS, PET, and rubber, would provide the same tactile satisfaction that makes mechanical keyboards so appealing.

What makes this concept particularly clever is the thoughtful details that show the designer really considered how such a device might actually work in real-world scenarios. The mini touchbar is positioned to the right of the keyboard rather than above it, reducing accidental touches while keeping quick controls easily accessible during typing sessions. Above the keyboard sits a speaker grille designed to display branding, adding visual interest while serving a functional purpose that enhances the overall aesthetic appeal.

The keyboard itself features 4mm-high keycaps for that satisfying mechanical feel that enthusiasts crave, while Touch ID gets relocated near the arrow keys for more natural finger placement during extended typing sessions. A rotary knob handles volume control with the kind of tactile feedback that makes adjustments feel intentional rather than accidental. These details demonstrate how the designer thought beyond surface aesthetics to consider actual user experience and daily interaction patterns with the device.

The target audience for this imagined device feels perfectly clear from the concept presentation and accompanying mood boards: people who view their workspace as an extension of their personality and appreciate products that spark joy. These are the users who carefully curate their desk setups, frequent aesthetic cafes, and understand that sometimes the best technology is the kind that makes you smile when you use it. They value personalization and believe their tools should reflect their individual taste and style preferences.

While this laptop will likely never exist beyond these beautiful renderings and detailed sketches, concepts like this serve an important purpose in pushing both designers and users to reconsider what’s possible. The idea that a laptop could be playful, tactile, and genuinely fun to interact with feels refreshing in a market dominated by sleek but impersonal glass and aluminum rectangles that prioritize thinness over character and personality.

Sometimes the most valuable design work happens in the realm of pure speculation, where creators can explore ideas without the constraints of manufacturing costs, market research, or corporate approval processes that typically limit innovation. This keycap laptop concept reminds us that technology doesn’t always have to be serious to be sophisticated, and that there’s real value in designs that prioritize delight alongside pure functionality.

The post Keycap-shaped Laptop Concept Channels Lofree’s Retro Charm first appeared on Yanko Design.

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Acer at IFA 2025: Predator and Nitro Gaming Push AI Power and Design https://www.yankodesign.com/2025/09/03/acer-at-ifa-2025-predator-and-nitro-gaming-push-ai-power-and-design/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=acer-at-ifa-2025-predator-and-nitro-gaming-push-ai-power-and-design Wed, 03 Sep 2025 09:00:31 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=576048

Acer at IFA 2025: Predator and Nitro Gaming Push AI Power and Design

Acer’s pre-IFA 2025 gaming announcements are a reminder that the best tech doesn’t just chase numbers; it shapes how we play, create, and even decorate...
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Acer’s pre-IFA 2025 gaming announcements are a reminder that the best tech doesn’t just chase numbers; it shapes how we play, create, and even decorate our spaces. This year, the Predator and Nitro lines focus on blending raw performance with AI smarts and a surprising amount of design thoughtfulness. Whether you’re a competitive gamer, a weekend warrior, or just want your gear to look as good as it runs, there’s something here that might make you rethink what a gaming setup can be.

The Predator and Nitro families each bring their own flavor to the table. Predator is Acer’s flex, combining hybrid power, workstation-level AI, and hardware that is as serious about cooling as it is about RGB. Nitro, on the other hand, is the approachable sibling. It is AI-enhanced, accessible, and ready to make high-end gaming feel less intimidating and a lot more fun. Let’s dig into the details.

Designer: Acer

Acer Predator: Hybrid Power and AI for Elite Gaming and Creation

The Predator Helios 18P AI is a beast with a brain. This isn’t just a gaming laptop; it is a portable powerhouse built for people who want to run AAA games at breakfast and train AI models by lunch. The 18-inch Mini LED 4K display is the kind of screen that makes you want to watch your own highlight reels on repeat, with colors that pop and a brightness that could double as a desk lamp. Under the hood, you’ll find up to an Intel Core Ultra 9 Processor 285HX with ECC memory, the kind you’d expect in a server, and an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5090 Laptop GPU. If you’re the type who likes to brag about specs, this machine will keep you busy.

Acer Predator Helios 18

What really sets the Helios 18P AI apart is its focus on hybrid work and play. The ECC memory is not just a feature; it is about reliability for creators and AI developers who cannot afford crashes or silent data corruption. The cooling system deserves its own spotlight, with dual 6th Gen AeroBlade fans, liquid metal thermal grease, and vector heat pipes. It might sound like overkill, but it is the kind of overkill that makes you smile. This is a laptop that wants to be your everything, from gaming rig to creative workstation and portable AI lab.

Acer Predator Orion 7000

The Predator Orion 7000 and Orion 5000 desktops are what you get when you let engineers and designers loose with a wish list. The Orion 7000 is the flagship, packing up to an Intel Core Ultra 9 285K, NVIDIA RTX 5090, and enough RAM and storage to make even the most demanding multitasker blush. The CycloneX 360 cooling system, paired with a 360mm liquid cooler, keeps things frosty even when you’re pushing every core to the limit. The ARGB lighting and tempered glass chassis are pure eye candy, but there’s substance behind the style. These cases use 65 percent post-consumer recycled plastic, so you can feel a little better about all those late-night gaming sessions.

Acer Predator Orion 5000

The Orion 5000 isn’t far behind, with up to an Intel Core Ultra 7 265F and RTX 5080 graphics. Both desktops are built for upgradability and feature Acer’s Intelligence Space, a smart hub for AI apps that boost creativity and productivity. The overall vibe is unapologetically high-end, but with enough practical touches to make them feel like a smart investment rather than just a splurge.

Acer Nitro: Accessible AI Gaming for Everyone

Acer Nitro V 16

Nitro’s theme this year is all about making AI-powered gaming and creativity less intimidating and more accessible. The Nitro V 16 is a great example. It is a 16-inch gaming laptop that doesn’t try to look like a spaceship. The WQXGA display is sharp and vibrant, and the 180Hz refresh rate keeps everything buttery smooth. Underneath, you’ll find up to an Intel Core 9 270H and NVIDIA RTX 5070 Laptop GPU, with AI features like DLSS 4 and NVIDIA Studio support. The dual-fan, quad-intake cooling system means you can actually use all that power without worrying about thermal throttling.

Acer Nitro V 16S

The Nitro V 16S takes portability up a notch, squeezing similar specs into a chassis that is under 19.9mm thin. The 4-zone RGB keyboard adds just enough flair without going overboard, and the slim metal design means you won’t feel silly pulling it out in a coffee shop. Both Nitro laptops include NitroSense for real-time performance monitoring and fan control, plus Intel Killer DoubleShot Pro for lag-free connectivity. They’re built for gamers who want to play anywhere, but also need a machine that can handle streaming, content creation, or even a bit of AI tinkering on the side.

Acer Nitro 70

The Nitro 70 and Nitro 50 desktops are all about giving you options. The Nitro 70 is the powerhouse, with up to an AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D and RTX 5090, plus a CycloneX 360 cooling system that is as effective as it is quiet. The 45L chassis is roomy and easy to upgrade, and the ARGB lighting lets you dial in your own vibe. Nitro 50 is a bit more modest but still packs serious punch, with up to a Ryzen 7 8700G and RTX 5080. Both use 65 percent recycled plastic in their cases, which is a nice nod to sustainability in a world of plastic-heavy gaming gear.

Acer Nitro 50

Acer Monitors & Keyboard: The Finishing Touches

Acer’s new monitors and keyboard are the cherries on top of this gaming sundae. The Predator X27U F8 is a 26.5-inch OLED with a jaw-dropping 720Hz refresh rate, designed for gamers who want every millisecond of advantage. The Nitro XV275K V6 brings 4K UHD clarity and 180Hz smoothness, while the XV273U W1 offers a 275Hz overclockable WQHD panel for those who crave speed and color accuracy.

Acer Predator X27U F8

Acer Nitro XV270X

Acer Nitro XV403CKR

The Nitro XV270X is all about ultra-high resolution, with a 5K display that makes everything from games to creative work look stunning. The Nitro XZ403CKR is a 39.7-inch curved monster, perfect for immersive racing or flight sims, with a 5K WUHD resolution and 180Hz refresh rate. Rounding things out is the Predator Aethon 550 TKL keyboard, which offers tri-mode connectivity, hot-swappable switches, and per-key RGB lighting in a compact, desk-friendly design.

Acer Predator Aethon 550 TKL

Pricing & Availability

  • Predator Helios 18P AI: Pricing/availability TBD
  • Predator Orion 7000: EMEA (Q1 2026) €3,999; Australia (Q1 2026) AUD 8,199
  • Predator Orion 5000: EMEA (Q1 2026) €2,999; Australia (Q1 2026) AUD 4,999
  • Predator X27U F8: North America (Q1 2026) $1,299.99; EMEA (Q2 2026) €1,199; China (Q1 2026) RMB 9,999
  • Predator Aethon 550 TKL: North America (Sept) $129; EMEA (Sept) €129
  • Nitro V 16: North America (Oct) $999.99; EMEA (Nov) €1,299
  • Nitro V 16S: North America (Nov) $1,099.99; EMEA (Nov) €1,399
  • Nitro 70: EMEA (Dec) €1,999
  • Nitro 50: Pricing/availability TBD
  • Nitro XV275K V6: North America (Q1 2026) $699.99; EMEA (Q2 2026) €599; China (Q1 2026) RMB 4,999; Australia (Q1 2026) AUD 999
  • Nitro XV273U W1: North America (Q1 2026) $299.99; EMEA (Q2 2026) €279; China (Q1 2026) RMB 1,999
  • Nitro XV270X: North America (Q1 2026) $899.99; EMEA (Q1 2026) €699; China (Q1 2026) RMB 4,999; Australia (Q1 2026) AUD 1,499
  • Nitro XZ403CKR: North America (Q1 2026) $999.99; EMEA (Q1 2026) €999; China (Q1 2026) RMB 7,999; Australia (Q1 2026) AUD 1,899

The post Acer at IFA 2025: Predator and Nitro Gaming Push AI Power and Design first appeared on Yanko Design.

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Torsin’s 360-Degree 10-inch Laptop Redefines Flexibility With a Round Trackpad https://www.yankodesign.com/2025/09/02/torsins-360-degree-10-inch-laptop-redefines-flexibility-with-a-round-trackpad/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=torsins-360-degree-10-inch-laptop-redefines-flexibility-with-a-round-trackpad Tue, 02 Sep 2025 16:20:10 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=575806

Torsin’s 360-Degree 10-inch Laptop Redefines Flexibility With a Round Trackpad

The laptop market has been chasing the perfect 2-in-1 formula for years now, hasn’t it? Most convertibles either sacrifice keyboard comfort for tablet functionality or...
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The laptop market has been chasing the perfect 2-in-1 formula for years now, hasn’t it? Most convertibles either sacrifice keyboard comfort for tablet functionality or end up feeling bulky and awkward when you try to use them as anything other than traditional laptops. The Torsin project on Kickstarter takes a completely different approach, starting with the question of what would happen if you could rotate your screen in literally any direction you wanted.

At the heart of Torsin’s appeal is its proprietary T-axis hinge, which breaks free from the single-axis rotation that limits most convertible laptops today. This dual-axis system allows the 10.5-inch screen to rotate 180 degrees vertically and 360 degrees horizontally, creating seamless movement in every direction rather than forcing you to work within predetermined positions. The creators claim their precision-engineered hinge has been tested through over 100,000 rotations with a 99.3 percent durability rate, suggesting they’ve taken the long-term reliability concerns seriously.

Designer: Torsin

What really sets Torsin apart, though, is that distinctive oval trackpad that immediately catches your attention in photos and videos. Instead of the standard rectangular touchpad we’ve all grown accustomed to, Torsin features a rounded multi-function control surface that doubles as an intuitive gesture ring. Simple edge swipes let you adjust brightness or volume instantly without diving into menus or hunting for keyboard shortcuts, which sounds particularly appealing for creative professionals who need quick adjustments during photo editing or gamers who want seamless audio control mid-session.

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The 10.5-inch IPS touchscreen delivers 1920×1280 resolution with 100 percent sRGB coverage and stylus support, making it suitable for both productivity work and creative tasks. Under the hood, an Intel N150 processor with up to 32GB of RAM and 2TB SSD storage provides enough power for multitasking, light gaming, and content creation, all packed into a sub-1kg metal chassis that measures just 20mm thin. The 5500mAh battery promises all-day use with USB-C fast charging for quick top-ups.

Where Torsin really shines is in its versatility for different scenarios throughout your day. The dual-axis hinge makes it genuinely useful as a tablet for drawing or note-taking, while the portrait mode creates an ideal e-reader experience that feels more natural than forcing landscape orientation for long reading sessions. The tent configuration works well for presentations or video calls, and the traditional laptop mode handles typing and productivity tasks without compromise.

Of course, Torsin is currently in the Kickstarter stage, which means the usual caveats apply about supporting hardware crowdfunding projects. The creators have three years of laptop manufacturing experience and claim to have working prototypes, but there’s always inherent risk in backing new hardware before it reaches mass production. That said, for users who’ve been waiting for a truly flexible ultraportable that doesn’t feel like a compromise between laptop and tablet functionality, Torsin’s innovative approach to hinge design and user interface might be worth watching.

The post Torsin’s 360-Degree 10-inch Laptop Redefines Flexibility With a Round Trackpad first appeared on Yanko Design.

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Top 5 Revolutionary Foldable Gadgets That Aren’t Phones (And Why You Need Them) https://www.yankodesign.com/2025/09/01/top-5-revolutionary-foldable-gadgets-that-arent-phones-and-why-you-need-them/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=top-5-revolutionary-foldable-gadgets-that-arent-phones-and-why-you-need-them Mon, 01 Sep 2025 11:40:52 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=573179

Top 5 Revolutionary Foldable Gadgets That Aren’t Phones (And Why You Need Them)

Everyone’s been going crazy over foldable phones, but to be honest, they’re solving a problem that doesn’t really exist. Yes, they’re impressive engineering feats, but...
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Everyone’s been going crazy over foldable phones, but to be honest, they’re solving a problem that doesn’t really exist. Yes, they’re impressive engineering feats, but most people can’t figure out why they’d pay double for a phone that’s thicker, more fragile, and way more expensive than regular smartphones.

But step outside the phone world, and folding suddenly makes perfect sense. Think about a laptop that’s a tablet, an e-reader that feels like a real book, or a full-sized mouse that vanishes when you don’t need it. These aren’t gimmicks or extravagant concepts; these innovative designs have real value, and they’re solving real problems we’ve dealt with for years. Dive in, and discover why you need to add them to your tech routine!

1. MacBook Folio

Designer Antonio has created what might be the most fascinating vision for Apple’s foldable future—a MacBook that’s all screen. This isn’t just adding a foldable display to existing MacBook designs; it’s completely reimagining what a laptop could be. The concept features a massive, foldable screen that eliminates physical keyboards, relying instead on a digital keyboard with haptic feedback for a realistic typing feel. Antonio’s design features Touch ID as a slide button, a trimmed version of Face ID, and support for a gorgeous AirPen for precise screen interaction and note-taking.

Why you need it

This concept solves the age-old problem of choosing between laptop productivity and tablet versatility. When folded, it becomes a massive iPad for creative work, reading, or media consumption. When opened, it transforms into a full laptop with all the screen real estate you could want. I love its dual nature—no more carrying both devices or making compromises. Apple’s attention to detail would theoretically solve the hinge and display durability issues that plague current foldable devices, while the haptic keyboard could feel better than some physical keyboards we’ve used.

What we like

  • Dual functionality eliminates the need to choose between a laptop and tablet for different tasks.
  • All-screen design provides unlimited possibilities for custom interfaces and creative workflows.

What we dislike

  • Losing physical keyboards might frustrate users who’ve spent years perfecting their typing muscle memory.
  • Concept status means this revolutionary design remains firmly in fantasy territory for now.

2. MooInk V

The MooInk V is basically what happens when an e-reader and a foldable phone have a baby, and the result is surprisingly great. This product has an 8-inch foldable E Ink screen that does both black-and-white and color, which is pretty much exactly what anyone who’s ever juggled between a Kindle and tablet has been waiting for. The text resolution matches what you’d expect from a premium e-reader, while the color stuff works well enough for comics and magazines, content that’s always felt weird on regular e-readers.

Why you need it

Regular e-readers are great for reading, but they never actually feel like reading a book. The MooInk V fixes that by literally folding like a book, complete with a spine-like hinge that makes the whole experience feel more natural. You can fold it 180 degrees to lie flat or prop it up at 90 degrees, depending on how you want to read. The aluminum build keeps it sturdy, and honestly, just the act of opening and closing it feels satisfying in a way that tapping a Kindle never does.

What we like

  • Finally feels like reading an actual book instead of staring at a flat screen.
  • Color E Ink means comics and illustrated books actually work properly on an e-reader.

What we dislike

  • Color resolution isn’t anywhere near what you’d get on a regular tablet.
  • There’s still a visible crease where it folds, which might bug some people during long reading sessions.

3. Samsung Flex Gaming Console

Samsung showed off this wild gaming console concept at MWC 2025 that looks like someone took a Nintendo Switch and made it fold in half like a book. It’s got the same basic layout: a screen in the middle, controls on the sides, but the whole thing closes up for way better portability. Now, before you get too excited, Samsung was pretty clear that this isn’t something you can buy. It’s more like them showing off their flexible screen tech to see if companies like Nintendo or Valve want to bite and make something real.

Why you need it

Current portable gaming is all about annoying compromises. The Steam Deck is awesome, but it feels like carrying a small laptop, while the Switch is super portable, but the screen feels tiny when you’re playing something complex. A foldable gaming device could solve both problems: a big screen when you’re playing, a tiny footprint when you’re traveling. Plus, think about the possibilities with two screens: maps on the bottom, inventory management, or chat windows without covering up the main game.

What we like

  • The foldable design means you get a big gaming screen that fits in your bag.
  • Dual-screen setup could enable completely new ways to play games.

What we dislike

  • It’s just a concept, so you can’t actually get your hands on one anytime soon.
  • Gaming on foldable screens would probably murder your battery life compared to regular handhelds.

4. OrigamiSwift Mouse

The OrigamiSwift is probably the most practical thing on this whole list. It’s a full-sized Bluetooth mouse that folds completely flat when you’re not using it. We’re talking 40 grams, thinner than most phones when folded, and it transforms in under half a second. The whole design is based on origami folding techniques, which sounds gimmicky but makes it surprisingly sturdy. If you’ve ever tried to fit a decent mouse in a laptop bag, you know this solves a real problem that’s been annoying people for decades.

Click Here to Buy Now: $79.00

Why you need it

Laptop trackpads have gotten way better over the years, but they still suck for anything serious. Photo editing, design work, even just navigating complex spreadsheets—you want a real mouse. But carrying around a regular mouse is a pain, especially if you’re moving between different workspaces all the time. The OrigamiSwift just eliminates that whole dilemma. Whether you’re working from coffee shops, bouncing between client meetings, or studying in different libraries, you’ve got a proper mouse that doesn’t take up any meaningful space in your bag.

What we like

  • Goes completely flat, so you never have to choose between mouse functionality and bag space.
  • Opens instantly, no fumbling around with complicated folding when you need to get work done.

What we dislike

  • The folding mechanism might wear out if you’re opening and closing it constantly.
  • Costs more than regular high-end mice that don’t need all the folding complexity.

5. Pentatonic Speaker

The Pentatonic speaker concept looks like five gold bars laid out side-by-side, except they’re made of sleek aluminum with a luxurious leather backing that holds everything together. Four outer panels house the speakers: a mix of regular drivers and bass, while the middle panel contains all the controls for volume and Bluetooth pairing. But here’s where it gets interesting: that leather backing gives the whole thing flexibility to transform into completely different shapes. You can roll it into a pentagon with speakers facing inward, spread it into a star shape with speakers facing out, or arrange it in a snake-like formation.

Why you need it

Most portable speakers force you to choose between decent sound and portability, but the Pentatonic concept eliminates that compromise. Lay it flat for directional sound like a traditional speaker, or roll it up and carry it like a duffel bag while it keeps playing. The coolest part is that when rolled up with speakers facing inward, it creates an echo chamber that amplifies the sound. You can customize your audio experience based on your space and needs.

What we like

  • Multiple configurations let you customize sound direction and quality for any situation.
  • Can keep playing music even while you’re carrying it around in rolled-up form.

What we dislike

  • Leather and aluminum construction would likely make this significantly more expensive than regular portable speakers.
  • Complex folding mechanism introduces more potential failure points compared to traditional speaker designs.

The Folding Revolution Is Just Getting Started

These five devices show what happens when folding technology has a point beyond just being cool. The MacBook concept tackles the screen size versus portability problem that’s been driving creatives nuts forever. The MooInk V finally makes digital reading feel like the real thing. Samsung’s gaming concept hints at solutions for portable gaming’s size issues, and the OrigamiSwift proves that even something as basic as a mouse can benefit from smart folding design.

I love how these products aren’t just new and shiny; they’re designed to solve tangible problems. They eliminate some annoying compromises we’ve all just accepted as part of using technology. As this stuff gets cheaper and more reliable, expect to see folding solutions pop up in places you’d never expect, completely changing how we think about making our digital tools both powerful and portable.

The post Top 5 Revolutionary Foldable Gadgets That Aren’t Phones (And Why You Need Them) first appeared on Yanko Design.

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Framework Laptop 16 NVIDIA RTX 5070 GPU Module Brings Laptops Closer to Desktop Power https://www.yankodesign.com/2025/09/01/framework-laptop-16-nvidia-rtx-5070-gpu-module-brings-laptops-closer-to-desktop-power/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=framework-laptop-16-nvidia-rtx-5070-gpu-module-brings-laptops-closer-to-desktop-power Mon, 01 Sep 2025 08:45:01 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=575466

Framework Laptop 16 NVIDIA RTX 5070 GPU Module Brings Laptops Closer to Desktop Power

The laptop versus desktop debate has raged for decades, hasn’t it? You either get the portability of a laptop with compromised performance and zero upgradability,...
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The laptop versus desktop debate has raged for decades, hasn’t it? You either get the portability of a laptop with compromised performance and zero upgradability, or you get the raw power and modularity of a desktop that’s permanently chained to your desk. Framework’s new Laptop 16 with upgradable NVIDIA graphics might finally be bridging that gap in a meaningful way.

For years, we’ve been told that truly modular laptops were impossible due to thermal constraints, space limitations, and the complexity of making everything work together reliably. Most manufacturers have settled for minor upgrades like swapping RAM or storage, while the GPU and CPU remain locked in place until you buy an entirely new machine. Framework apparently didn’t get that memo.

Designer: Framework

The star of this latest iteration is the user-swappable NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 graphics module, which brings NVIDIA’s latest Blackwell architecture with 8GB of GDDR7 memory to a fully modular form factor. The performance jump is substantial too, delivering 30-40% better gaming framerates compared to the previous Radeon RX 7700S module. More importantly, upgrading requires just six screws and takes about three minutes, making it genuinely accessible for regular users rather than requiring advanced technical skills.

What makes the Framework Laptop 16 particularly compelling is how comprehensive the modularity actually extends beyond just the graphics card upgrade path. The input deck is completely customizable, letting you swap between keyboard modules, numpads, macropads, and spacers depending on your workflow needs. Whether you’re a programmer who wants dedicated macro keys, a gamer who needs a numpad for MMOs, or a minimalist who prefers clean spacing, you can reconfigure the entire layout.

Storage, memory, and even the mainboard itself can be upgraded independently, creating what Framework calls a “laptop for life” philosophy. This level of user control feels almost desktop-like in its flexibility, except you can actually close the lid and take it with you. The thermal system has been revamped to handle the increased power demands, using advanced thermal interface materials and a 240-watt USB-C charger that makes this one of the few gaming laptops powered entirely through USB-C.

That said, we’ve seen ambitious modular laptop projects before, and they haven’t exactly had stellar track records for longevity. Alienware’s Area-51m promised upgradable CPUs and GPUs but quickly abandoned the concept when newer generations didn’t fit the original chassis design. Other manufacturers have tried similar approaches only to quietly discontinue them when the engineering challenges became too complex or expensive to maintain over multiple product generations.

Framework’s approach feels different this time, particularly with NVIDIA’s direct involvement and support for the graphics module ecosystem. The company has also demonstrated backward compatibility by making the RTX 5070 module work with existing Laptop 16 units, proving they’re serious about long-term upgrade paths. Still, only time will tell whether this modular vision can survive the inevitable pressures of cost reduction, manufacturing complexity, and changing industry standards.

For creators, gamers, and power users who’ve been frustrated by the disposable nature of most laptops, the Framework Laptop 16 represents something genuinely exciting. It’s the closest thing we’ve seen to a desktop replacement that actually lives up to that name, offering real upgradability without sacrificing portability. Whether this marks the beginning of a new era in modular computing or becomes another interesting footnote in laptop history remains to be seen, but it’s certainly the most promising attempt we’ve witnessed so far.

The post Framework Laptop 16 NVIDIA RTX 5070 GPU Module Brings Laptops Closer to Desktop Power first appeared on Yanko Design.

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ThinkBook Plus Gen 6 Rollable Hands-On: Watch This Laptop Screen Expand Like Magic https://www.yankodesign.com/2025/08/18/thinkbook-plus-gen-6-rollable-hands-on-watch-this-laptop-screen-expand-like-magic/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=thinkbook-plus-gen-6-rollable-hands-on-watch-this-laptop-screen-expand-like-magic Mon, 18 Aug 2025 22:36:39 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=572970

ThinkBook Plus Gen 6 Rollable Hands-On: Watch This Laptop Screen Expand Like Magic

The ThinkBook Plus Gen 6 Rollable arrived at our studio today, and honestly, I didn’t expect to see this technology shipping so soon. When I...
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The ThinkBook Plus Gen 6 Rollable arrived at our studio today, and honestly, I didn’t expect to see this technology shipping so soon. When I first encountered this device at MWC 2025, it felt like another ambitious concept piece that would take years to materialize. proved that assumption wrong.

Designer: Lenovo

The ThinkBook Plus Gen 6 Rollable represents a fundamental shift in how we think about portable workspace design. While the industry has been obsessing over foldable displays that crease and bend, Lenovo took a different approach – they went vertical with a motor-driven flexible POLED panel that expands from 14 inches to 16.7 inches seamlessly.

Design Philosophy: Engineering Becomes Everyday Use

Closed, the ThinkBook Plus Gen 6 Rollable looks deceptively ordinary. At 1.7 kilograms (3.7 pounds) and 19.9mm (0.78 inches) thick, it’s chunkier than your typical ultrabook. That bulk makes perfect sense when you consider what’s hiding inside – precision motors, flexible display components, and all the engineering required to make this transformation work reliably.

Build quality feels solid despite the complex internals. The chassis maintains ThinkBook’s professional aesthetic while housing technology that would have seemed impossible a few years ago. Materials feel appropriate without being ostentatious – exactly what you’d expect from a device targeting mobile professionals who need serious computing power.

When you trigger the rolling mechanism (either through the dedicated key or gesture controls), the transformation is smooth and controlled. The motor operates with surprising quietness, extending the display in about three seconds. There’s no jarring mechanical noise or concerning vibrations – the engineered movement expands your workspace confidently.

The expanded display maintains visual consistency across both the standard and extended portions. You can see the curve line where the display rolls, particularly at certain viewing angles, but it doesn’t interfere with usability. The POLED panel delivers 100% DCI-P3 color accuracy and 400 nits brightness whether it’s compact or fully extended, which means your content looks consistent regardless of configuration.

Display Technology: Where Form Serves Function

The rollable display technology here addresses real workflow challenges that static screens can’t solve. Traditional laptops force you to choose between portability and screen real estate – you either carry a compact machine with limited workspace or haul around a larger device with more screen territory. The ThinkBook Plus Gen 6 Rollable eliminates that compromise.

The 14-inch base configuration (2000×1600 resolution) provides standard laptop functionality for focused work, travel, and productivity tasks. When expanded to 16.7 inches (2000×2350 resolution), you get significantly more vertical workspace without carrying a larger machine. The aspect ratio shifts from 5:4 to 8:9, creating a more vertical workspace that benefits document editing, code development, and content creation workflows.

Lenovo’s ThinkBook Workspace software adapts intelligently to the changing screen real estate. Windows and applications reposition automatically as the display expands or contracts. You can have multiple applications visible simultaneously when expanded, then consolidate to focused single-app use when compact. This is about having adaptive workspace that responds to your immediate needs.

The 10-120Hz variable refresh rate and Dolby Vision support ensure that whether you’re editing video content or reading documents, the display adapts its refresh behavior to match the content type. Battery efficiency improves during static content display, while motion content gets the smooth refresh rate it needs for proper visualization.

The motor-driven mechanism requires the laptop to be positioned at 90 degrees or more for proper operation, which works fine since you naturally work at those angles anyway. The gesture controls work reliably once enabled in ThinkBook Workspace settings, though I found the dedicated key more intuitive for quick transformations.

What impressed me most is how the flexible POLED panel handles the repeated rolling motion. There’s no visible degradation or dead pixels after multiple expansion cycles. The display technology feels mature and production-ready rather than experimental, which gives confidence for long-term reliability in professional use scenarios.

Real-World Workflow Applications

As someone who juggles day trading, journalism, and content creation, the expanded display real estate changes how I approach different tasks. For trading scenarios, I can keep charts on the main screen while monitoring watchlists, news feeds, and order books on the extended portion – getting a dual-monitor setup without carrying multiple displays.

Journalism work benefits significantly from the vertical expansion. Research materials, interview transcripts, and source documents can occupy the extended screen while the main area stays focused on article writing. When editing images for Yanko Design articles, the extra workspace means seeing full editing palettes without constantly hiding and showing tool windows.

Content creation workflows see the most dramatic improvement. Video editing projects can display timelines, preview windows, and effect controls simultaneously without the cramped feeling typical of single-screen editing. The additional vertical space helps with longer timeline projects where you need to see more clips and transitions at once.

Audio and Input Experience

The Harman Kardon speakers deliver surprisingly robust audio considering the space constraints of housing a motor system. Dolby Atmos processing creates reasonable spatial audio for laptop speakers, though you’ll still want headphones for serious audio work. The dual-microphone array handles video calls well, with clear pickup even in moderately noisy environments.

 

The haptic touchpad represents another thoughtful design element. At 75 x 120mm, it provides generous tracking area while delivering precise tactile feedback that feels natural rather than artificial. The buttonless glass surface supports all standard Precision TouchPad gestures while maintaining the responsive feel that professional users expect.

The 5MP camera with ToF sensor and E-shutter keeps video calls looking professional. The infrared component enables Windows Hello face recognition, while the ToF sensor ensures accurate focus even in challenging lighting conditions. For a device targeting mobile professionals who spend significant time in video meetings, these camera capabilities feel appropriately specified.

Performance and Practical Considerations

The Intel Core Ultra 7 258V processor provides adequate performance for the target professional workflows while keeping thermal output manageable within the constrained chassis. With 115 TOPS of AI compute power through Copilot+ PC capabilities, AI-assisted tasks run locally without cloud dependencies – important for users handling sensitive business or creative content.

Battery life manages the motor system drain better than expected. While exact numbers require extended testing, initial use suggests the rolling mechanism doesn’t dramatically impact power consumption during typical expansion cycles. The 66Wh battery capacity feels appropriate for a device this size, though power users will likely want to stay near charging options during intensive work sessions.

The device ships with Windows 11 Pro and includes Lenovo AI Now for local AI processing of personal documents and content. The Smart Key (F9) provides quick access to AI features without requiring cloud connectivity – a practical consideration for users working with confidential materials.

The ThinkBook Plus Gen 6 Rollable positions itself as proof that concept technology can transition to production reality. Rather than waiting for perfect cost optimization or mass market appeal, Lenovo chose to ship a working implementation that demonstrates rollable display viability for professional users willing to pay for workspace flexibility.

This device signals a broader industry shift toward adaptive form factors that respond to user needs rather than forcing users to adapt to fixed configurations. While foldable displays focus on creating tablet-like experiences, rollable technology addresses the specific challenge of variable workspace requirements in traditional laptop computing.

The post ThinkBook Plus Gen 6 Rollable Hands-On: Watch This Laptop Screen Expand Like Magic first appeared on Yanko Design.

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