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Framework responds to complaints that BIOS update bricks Ryzen 7040 laptops

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Why This Matters

The recent BIOS update for the Framework Laptop 13 with AMD Ryzen 7040-series processors highlights the risks associated with firmware updates, especially for new hardware. This incident underscores the importance of thorough testing and reliable update processes to prevent system bricking, which can significantly impact consumer trust and brand reputation in the tech industry.

Key Takeaways

A BIOS update for the Framework Laptop 13 with AMD Ryzen 7040-series processors is bricking the systems, multiple users have reported online.

Framework started shipping pre-built Ryzen 7040-based Framework Laptop 13 computers and compatible motherboards in 2023. In June 2026, Framework released BIOS 3.20 for the devices. The update adds mainboard support for features, including a haptic touchpad and new speakers, for the higher-end Framework Laptop 13 Pro and fixes issues, including one “where the Battery Extender status was reported incorrectly following a reboot, hibernation, or shutdown after the timer had expired,” per a post on Framework’s forum from an employee.

Some users say that they installed the update successfully.

Numerous others, however, claim that the installation stalls, bricking the laptop.

“[T]he update process seems to have stalled,” a Framework forum user named Sven posted in July. “What I see is a black screen and a progress bar with 2 dots and then the Framework logo. The progress bar is not moving for about 3 hours now. Also, I can’t turn off the Framework using the power button, no matter how long I hold it down. Now the BIOS update is stuck, and I can not power down or reboot the machine.”

Ars Technica contacted Framework, asking how many customers are affected. In a company statement, Framework said it has “received reports of a small percentage of Framework Laptop 13 7040 Series BIOS updates resulting in non-bootable boards.” Framework is investigating the root cause of the issue, the statement said.