Framework laptop with a custom open source keyboard modules

Hello,

I’m not sure if this topic has been discussed yet, and I was surprised to not find much discussion in the community around this. There are various open source custom keyboards in the market (the most notably famous one being the Corne). The external keyboards are mostly mechanical ones with hot-swappable keys, and I understand how that could be a problem for Framework. However, I was wondering if the Framework team is open to introduce standard open source keyboard layouts like the Corne or Lily, in a form factor suitable for laptop. The option to add an optional trackpoint will be a huge bonus, or it could even be an option while selecting the keyboard module. I would definitely move to the Framework infrastructure for my personal laptop, away from my Thinkpad if I get this option.

Thanks!

Welcome to the forum.

Just want to check that you’re aware that the Framework Laptop 16 keyboard modules are all fully open source QMK keyboards using an onboard RP2040 for the keyboard controller. Includes Via support out-of-the-box. Firmware is on Framework’s github. Community members have posted various tweaks & alt firmware, including a Vial/QMK port.

For the Framework Laptop 13, the keyboard firmware is fully open source as well, since the keyboard controller function is handled within the mainboard’s EC (Embedded Controller) which Framework open sourced, again on their github. Though it requires a little more skill to play around or tweak how the keyboard works there, it’s not as easy as QMK firmware.

You mention Corne and Lily keyboards, so perhaps you’re more interested in the custom layout side of things? This is more difficult, of course, with mainstream laptops trying to stay relatively thin & not having the room for off-the-shelf individual keyswitch modules. Though, the FWL16 is not far off from being able to fit Cherry MX ULP, and there is a thread with community members exploring the possibility to increase the room available.
Also, Framework has said that they’re trying to see if they can make individual FWL16 keyswitch modules available, in order to enable people to create custom layouts with them. Posted a picture of a prototype.

There is also a thread with a community member working to fit Thinkpad keyboards, including a trackpoint iirc, and a Thinkpad touchpad with physical buttons.

Potential referents:

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