Framework confirms BIOS updates can brick Ryzen 7040 laptops

Framework has confirmed a firmware issue affecting a small percentage of Framework Laptop 13 systems equipped with AMD Ryzen 7040-series motherboards. A BIOS update can fail during the flashing process, leaving the motherboard unable to boot.

Framework is investigating the root cause and has committed to replacing affected in-warranty motherboards. Additionally, the company stated it will make exceptions for systems outside the standard warranty period if it can be verified that a stable-release BIOS update caused the hardware to become non-bootable.

To address potential BIOS corruption, users can attempt a manual recovery by using the built-in recovery mechanism. This typically involves holding the power button to discharge residual power and using a pinhole recovery button on the bottom of the device while connecting the charger to trigger a flash from a backup chip.