Laptop makers are finally taking a note from companies like Framework and emphasizing repairability above all. At IFA 2026, Acer promised its new Vero 16 laptop is its most repairable mobile design ever, with toolless access to its components and the option to completely replace even the laptop lid’s hinge.
If you’re coming here as a Framework fan, your first question will naturally be, “Can I replace the CPU and the mainboard?” The answer is, surprisingly, yes. Acer says the Vero 16 is designed to support processor upgrades “for at least two generations.” The fourth-gen Vero laptop packs up to an Intel Core Ultra X9 388H, which means it’s using Intel’s 12 Xe3-core GPU to enable some graphics tasks and gaming on the side. However, if you want to configure it with an Intel Core Ultra 5 or Ultra 7 CPU, you can. Whatever next comes from Intel, supposedly, also works inside the same chassis.
Acer has also enabled toolless access on the chassis’ underside panel, where you’ll be able to swap out both the 71Wh battery and up to a 512GB SSD. The system also comes configured with up to 32GB of LPDDR5X RAM. Acer says the laptop also includes a “user-friendly visual guide” engraved onto various components, which should aid in the process of repairing or upgrading.
And yes, you can even remove the entire hinge mechanism to make screen repairs easier. The port covers are also replaceable. The laptop is making use of a 16-inch OLED panel that promises 400 nits of brightness. You’ll have options for a 3K display (2,880 x 1,800) or 1200p displays that come in touch and non-touch varieties. As for I/O, you’ll get two Thunderbolt 4 USB-C ports, two USB-A, an SD card reader, and an HDMI out.
Acer is making a big deal of the Vero 16’s use of 50% recycled materials and low-carbon aluminum in the palm rest and laptop lid. The company claimed that Vero’s bottom panel is also made with 60% post-consumer plastic. Hey, we never knock any company for using more recycled materials in their products, but any tech product should never be called “sustainable.” There’s the human cost of procuring raw materials and manufacturing. International shipping is also an incredibly carbon-intensive practice.
Either way, we’re happy to see more companies aiming for better repairability. We’re still hoping Lenovo eventually releases its ultra-repairable concept ThinkPad laptop with a swappable screen. We can all agree that the more repairable our own devices, the better.
