Framework Adds External GPU Support to Laptop 16

Framework Computer is launching an OCuLink development kit that lets you connect an external graphics card to its Laptop 16, delivering eight lanes of PCIe bandwidth—roughly four times the throughput of Thunderbolt-based external GPUs. The kit works with both Framework's own GPU modules and standard desktop graphics cards, shipping in 2024 for creators and professionals needing GPU power for AI, 3D rendering, and demanding workloads. Trade-off: the laptop must shut down before plugging in or removing hardware, prioritizing performance over convenience.