Headquartered in Switzerland, MetaComputing has introduced an ARM-based AI PC platform specifically designed for the Framework Laptop 13 ecosystem. Developed in collaboration with CIX Technology, this solution delivers a dedicated ARM mainboard option for Framework systems, representing one of the first consumer-oriented products built around the high-performance CIX CP8180 processor.
CIX CP8180 SoC: ARM Compute with Integrated AI Acceleration
At the core of the system is the CIX CP8180 system-on-chip, manufactured using a modern 6 nm process. The SoC integrates a 12-core Arm CPU configuration based on a big.LITTLE-style design, combining high-performance Cortex-A720 cores with power-efficient Cortex-A520 cores, reaching boost frequencies of up to 2.6 GHz. This heterogeneous architecture is well suited for multitasking, sustained workloads, and power-conscious desktop or mobile use.
Graphics processing is handled by a 10-core Arm Mali GPU, providing sufficient performance for desktop compositing, media workloads, and light GPU-accelerated tasks. The standout feature, however, is the integrated neural processing unit (NPU), which delivers up to 45 TOPS of AI compute. This makes the platform particularly attractive for on-device inference, local large language models, and other machine learning workloads that benefit from low latency and data locality.
| Processor | Specification |
|---|---|
| SoC | CIX CP8180 |
| Manufacturing Process | 6 nm |
| CPU Configuration | 12 cores (Cortex-A720 + Cortex-A520) |
| Max CPU Frequency | Up to 2.6 GHz |
| GPU | Arm Mali GPU, 10 cores |
| NPU Performance | Up to 45 TOPS |
MetaComputing offers the platform in two variants: Standard and Pro. Both models support modular upgrades and are available with either 16 GB or 32 GB of system memory, paired with a 1 TB SSD as standard storage. This configuration provides ample capacity for development environments, datasets, and containerized workloads.
The primary difference between the Standard and Pro versions lies in expansion support. The Pro model offers a higher number of supported expansion card slots, aligning with the modular design philosophy of the Framework ecosystem and enabling greater flexibility for I/O customization.
| Configuration | Standard | Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Memory Options | 16 GB / 32 GB | 16 GB / 32 GB |
| Storage | 1 TB SSD | 1 TB SSD |
| Expansion Card Support | Standard configuration | Enhanced configuration |
Modular Deployment: Laptop or Desktop Form Factor
A key advantage of this ARM mainboard is its deployment flexibility. Users can install the board directly into an existing Framework Laptop 13 chassis, preserving portability and battery-powered operation. Alternatively, it can be mounted in a dedicated desktop enclosure developed in collaboration with Cooler Master, allowing the system to function as a compact ARM workstation or AI development node.
This dual-form-factor compatibility maintains the core strengths of the Framework platform—modularity, repairability, and straightforward hardware upgrades—while expanding its reach into ARM-native computing.
Linux-Ready Out of the Box
Targeting developers and Linux users, the system ships pre-installed with Ubuntu 25.04. The OS is configured to support ARM-native development workflows, making it suitable for software compilation, application testing, container development, and daily desktop use without requiring additional setup.
By providing a ready-to-run Linux environment, MetaComputing lowers the barrier to entry for engineers who want to explore ARM-based desktop and AI computing without dealing with manual kernel configuration or driver integration.
Pricing is structured to address different usage scenarios and budgets. The Standard model starts at USD 549 for the 16 GB memory configuration with a 1 TB SSD, while the 32 GB variant is priced at USD 649. The Pro model, which offers expanded modular capabilities, is available at USD 999 with 16 GB of memory and USD 1,099 for the 32 GB configuration.
Overall, the MetaComputing ARM AI PC positions itself as a flexible and forward-looking solution for developers seeking a modular, Linux-ready ARM platform with strong local AI acceleration and seamless integration into the Framework Laptop 13 ecosystem.
