Major MacBook maker unveils Adapt X modular laptop concept

Taiwanese contract electronics manufacturer Compal has shown off a concept of a modular laptop called Adapt X that allows for quick and easy replacement of components. The company may begin producing such devices this year.

Image source: ifdesign.com

Laptops are a real disaster in terms of e-waste. Some components of mobile computers are produced only for specific models; failed components often cannot be replaced, and it is not always possible to improve the configuration. Framework was the first to launch truly modular laptops, and now Compal has decided to follow in its footsteps. The company’s name is not well-known because it is an ODM manufacturer and produces laptops under other brands, for example, by order of Apple, HP, Dell and others. In fact, it is one of the three largest laptop manufacturers in the world, along with Quanta and Wistron.

Detailed technical specifications of the Adapt X project are not provided. It is known that the line includes 14- and 16-inch variants, and some components of the modular design are connected via a USB Type-C port. The Framework offers more flexible options for replacing components, including the choice of motherboard, screen and set of input/output ports, but on the side of Compal is mass production and cooperation with leading brands. There is a possibility that the Adapt X concept will become a serial product, will go into mass production and will begin to be sold in all regions of the world – this is stated on the project page in the iF Design Award catalog. Then the question of technical characteristics will be clarified.