Laptop-slinger Framework refunding customers who paid top dollar for RAM

Framework, a laptop manufacturer, has decided to refund some customers who paid a premium for RAM in their 13 Pro model. The company informed customers in July that they would receive only 32GB of RAM instead of the promised 64GB due to a significant increase in RAM costs. Framework received a cost update from their supplier, LPCAMM2, which exceeded their predictions and posed a financial risk to the company.

The supplier's price for LPCAMM2 went up more than double compared to their previous shipment. To minimize the impact of this challenge, Framework reduced the RAM in some machines. Recently, they acquired a limited quantity of Micron 32GB and 64GB LPCAMM2 memory modules at lower costs. The company is reducing prices across already shipped and pending pre-orders, refunding customers who ordered laptops during the high RAM prices.

Framework's decision to refund customers and adjust order prices isn't unique. Other companies, such as Everpure and HPE, have also honored pre-purchase prices despite the soaring memory costs. These actions may not be altruistic, as memory makers like Micron and SK Hynix offer long-term deals to reduce exposure to price fluctuations.