Laptops are among the devices that are easy to break due to how they are built. Even in replacing components, users might find it more difficult since the parts are smaller. Knowing this, Lenovo has partnered with iFixit to make the process more convenient for self-repair.
Easier Lenovo ThinkPad Upgrades
Upgrading laptops is not very common, but it's also not unheard of. Changing components might be the better option than buying a new device altogether, and thanks to Lenovo's collaboration with iFixit, it won't be so complicated with certain models.
ThinkPad T14 Gen 5 and T16 Gen 3, in particular, users will be able to swap out components without the need for certain tools. For one, the DIMM slots are not fully socketed as opposed to soldered RAM, as reported by The Verge.
The SSD and wireless adapter slots have become more accessible and both the SSD and the RAM are clearly marked. There are even QR codes included in repairable components, all of which lead to instruction videos that could help first-timers with repairs.
The batteries are easier to replace thanks to them being cable-free and having lesser screws to deal with. Speaking of screws, there are indications on which ones should be removed if the user intends to replace certain parts like the keyboard or the trackpad.
Lenovo is not stopping with more convenient repairs, as it will also issue upgrades for three ThinkPad T-series laptops. The ThinkPad T14 Gen 5, ThinkPad T14s Gen 5, and ThinkPad T16 Gen 3, in particular, will have better components in the later releases.
The upgrades include an Intel Core Ultra or AMD Ryzen 8040 CPU, as well as an extended communication bar that will house the camera and microphones for slimmer bezels and bigger display ratios for the screen.
ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 12 and ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 Gen 9 laptops will no longer be the models that have tactile markings for the Fn, Insert, Enter, and volume keys. All models will have the feature applied, along with a physical Microsoft Copilot key.
Lenovo's Transparent Screen
When it comes to innovative additions and new designs, Lenovo is certainly making waves this 2024. The company just unveiled a prototype of its upcoming laptop, which uniquely has a transparent or see-through screen.
That's not all as users will also be getting a trackpad that covers the entire lower half of the laptop. Instead of physical keyboard keys, a touch keyboard will be taking its place. It includes a stylus, as reported by CNBC making it a preferable model for graphic artists.
The screen is opaque enough when the user needs it to be so that the background behind the screen would not be distracting, but could make it transparent for certain purposes like tracing objects or utilizing AI technology to identify them.
It's certainly a new build for laptops, and it may take a while for users to get used to it, especially without the tactile keyboards. With the transparent screen, there are a lot of uses that can yet be discovered.
