Lenovo has announced new ThinkPad laptops at CES 2026, including the ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 14 Aura Edition, ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 Gen 11 Aura Edition, and the ThinkPad X9 15p Aura Edition. A central feature across these models is the introduction of a "Space Frame" modular design, which is intended to enhance repairability and optimize internal component layout.
Space Frame Modular Design
The Space Frame design represents a restructuring of the laptop's internal architecture, allowing for easier access and replacement of multiple components. This design facilitates the replacement of parts such as the battery, keyboard, cooling fans, speakers, and USB ports by users or technicians. Access to the motherboard and internal components is provided through removable bottom panels and keyboards.
Historically, ThinkPad X1 Carbon models from Gen 2 onwards integrated the keyboard into the palmrest, often requiring extensive disassembly for replacement. The Gen 14 iteration addresses this by separating the keyboard frame from the main structural frame, which is intended to streamline keyboard exchanges.
The internal layout positions components on both sides of a two-sided motherboard. This design reduces the motherboard's size to approximately two-thirds of previous versions, contributing to the X1 Carbon's thin-and-light profile, enhancing internal airflow, and supporting sustained performance. The compact motherboard also accommodates a larger haptic touchpad. While multiple components are designed for user-replacement, the RAM remains soldered to the motherboard, making it non-user-replaceable.
Sustainability Initiatives
The modularity of the Space Frame design is intended to extend the lifespan of the devices by allowing individual component replacement. The chassis of these new ThinkPads is constructed from up to 75% recycled aluminum and 90% recycled magnesium. Additionally, the product packaging is plastic-free.
ThinkPad X1 Aura Edition Models
The ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 14 Aura Edition and ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 Gen 11 Aura Edition are powered by Intel Core Ultra X7 Series 3 processors from Intel's Panther Lake series. These processors include 12Xe graphic cores and integrated NPUs for AI acceleration, along with integrated Intel Arc B390 graphics. Both models are classified as Microsoft Copilot+ PCs.
Key Specifications:
- Processors: Intel Core Ultra X7 Series 3 (Panther Lake)
- RAM: Up to 64GB of LPDDR5x RAM (soldered)
- Storage: Up to 2TB SSD
- Display: 2.8K OLED panel
- Camera: 10-megapixel webcam with a 110-degree-wide field of view and advanced distortion correction capabilities
- Weight:
- ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 14 Aura Edition: 2.2 pounds
- ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 Gen 11 Aura Edition: 2.6 pounds
- Features: Haptic touchpad; the ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 model includes a new magnetically docked pen designed for ergonomic use.
The ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 14 Aura Edition received the "Best Laptop" award at the Official Best of CES 2026 Awards.
ThinkPad X9 15p Aura Edition
Lenovo also announced the ThinkPad X9 15p Aura Edition. This model features an all-aluminum chassis and includes a 15.3-inch 2.8K OLED display. It incorporates the largest haptic touchpad available on a ThinkPad device and is powered by the new Intel Core Ultra X9 Series 3 processors.
Availability and Pricing
The new ThinkPad models are scheduled for release in March. The ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 14 Aura Edition will have a starting price of $1,999, and the ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 Gen 11 Aura Edition will start at $2,149.