Framework Opens Pre-Orders for Linux Desktop with AMD Ryzen AI Max+ PRO 495
Framework has opened pre-orders for a Linux-only ITX desktop powered by AMD's Ryzen AI Max+ PRO 495 processor and 192GB of LPDDR5X-8533 unified memory. The standalone motherboard is priced at $6,469, while the barebone DIY desktop configuration starts at $6,799. With 192GB of unified memory shared across CPU and graphics, this compact workstation provides massive memory bandwidth for running large local AI and LLM workloads without requiring expensive dedicated data center GPUs. It also expands Framework's modular hardware design into high-performance desktop form factors. The system features an open-ended PCIe Gen4 x4 slot, two M.2 2280 PCIe Gen4 x4 SSD slots, 5GbE Ethernet, Wi-Fi 7, dual USB-C 40Gbps ports, DisplayPort 2.1, HDMI 2.1, and front expansion card support. Operating system support is officially limited to Linux.
## BACKGROUND
Framework is known for building modular, repairable PCs that feature swappable expansion cards for customizable port setups. AMD's Ryzen AI Max 400 series APUs, codenamed 'Gorgon Halo', integrate Zen 5 CPU cores and RDNA 3.5 graphics with unified system memory, making them suitable for high-memory AI computing tasks.