Intel is making significant strides towards making personal computers more sustainable by adopting a modular design approach. This initiative comes at a critical time, as electronic waste (e-waste) has become a pressing global issue, with over 60 million tons generated annually, and only 12% of it is recycled. Computers are responsible for almost 70% of global e-waste, equating to about $65 billion in recoverable materials.
In response to the growing right-to-repair movement, Intel is rethinking PC design to make devices easier to upgrade and repair, ultimately extending their lifespan and minimizing waste.
Intel Modular Design for Everyone At the factory level, manufacturers can tailor parts during production, reducing both costs and waste. On the field level, technicians will be able to perform repairs or upgrades without needing to replace the entire device. On the user level, individuals will be able to upgrade parts like RAM or storage independently, reducing the need for professional help.
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Modular PCs for Different Users Intel’s approach includes a wide range of designs, with desktop PCs being the most adaptable as nearly every component can be replaced or repaired due to easy access. Laptops are somewhat more challenging, especially with soldered memory in devices like those from Apple and other OEMs. Replacing major components like a motherboard can be difficult for most users.
Intel is also introducing subsystem modularity, allowing users to replace smaller, frequently used parts like USB-C ports, helping to prolong their usability and making repairs easier. Framework, a company leading the way in modular design, offers products where every part is replaceable, providing spare parts and modular ports that can be swapped, such as replacing an HDMI port with USB-A or USB-C.
Intel’s move towards modularity hopes to set a trend for other companies, encouraging improved repairability and sustainability in future devices.
