The relentless pursuit of the perfect balance between featherweight portability and serious computing power just took a significant leap forward. LG Electronics has unveiled two new additions to its acclaimed Gram Pro lineup, the Gram Pro 16-inch and Gram Pro 17-inch, both packing the latest Intel Core Ultra 7 processors and leveraging the burgeoning power of on-device AI.
For years, LG's Gram series has been synonymous with defying expectations. The idea of a 16-inch laptop weighing well under 3 pounds or a massive 17-inch screen in a chassis lighter than many 14-inch competitors seemed almost magical. But the common critique often centered on whether such extreme lightness came at the cost of performance, particularly for demanding professional tasks. With these new Pro models, LG is aiming to silence those doubts decisively.
The Heart of the Matter: Intel Core Ultra 7 & NPU Power
At the core of these new machines lies Intel's Core Ultra 7 processor. This isn't just a standard CPU bump. The Core Ultra architecture introduces a dedicated Neural Processing Unit (NPU) directly onto the chip. This marks LG's first Gram laptops designed explicitly as "AI PCs," unlocking new potential for efficiency and intelligent features.
- Enhanced Productivity: The NPU offloads AI-driven tasks from the CPU and GPU, leading to smoother performance in applications leveraging AI for things like background blur in video calls, voice enhancement, image editing, and even certain creative workflows. Expect longer battery life during these tasks, as the NPU is significantly more power-efficient for AI computations.
- Raw Performance: Beyond the AI capabilities, the Core Ultra 7 processors (expected to be models like the 155H) offer substantial generational improvements in both CPU and integrated Arc graphics performance over their predecessors. This translates to better handling of multitasking, complex spreadsheets, coding, light photo/video editing, and even casual gaming.
- Intel Evo Certified: Both new Gram Pro models meet the stringent requirements for Intel Evo certification, ensuring responsiveness, instant wake, long battery life, and fast charging – key traits for professionals on the move.
Shedding Weight, Not Features
True to the Gram legacy, LG hasn't sacrificed its core identity. Both the 16-inch and 17-inch Pro models maintain their incredibly light profiles:
- Gram Pro 16-inch: Weighs approximately 2.66 lbs (1.21 kg).
- Gram Pro 17-inch: Comes in at around 3.17 lbs (1.44 kg).
Despite this lightness, LG promises uncompromised build quality using its signature lightweight yet durable magnesium alloy chassis, passed through demanding MIL-STD-810H durability tests.
Visuals and Interaction
- Stunning OLED Displays (Options): Both models offer optional OLED panels with a 16:10 aspect ratio. This means vibrant colors, perfect blacks, high contrast ratios, and potentially VESA DisplayHDR True Black 500 certification for exceptional HDR content viewing. Expect resolutions reaching up to WQXGA+ (3200 x 1800) on the 16-inch and likely similar pixel density on the 17-inch.
- Smooth Operation: 90Hz refresh rates are available on select configurations, making scrolling and animations noticeably smoother than standard 60Hz laptops.
- Improved Input: Backlit keyboards and large precision touchpads ensure comfortable typing and navigation.
Staying Cool Under Pressure
Packing high-performance chips into ultra-thin chassis demands innovative cooling. LG has equipped the new Gram Pro models with an advanced "Dual Cooling System." This incorporates larger fans and a vapor chamber – a technology more common in gaming laptops – to efficiently dissipate heat and maintain performance during sustained workloads without excessive fan noise. This is a crucial upgrade for professionals pushing these lightweight machines.
Availability and More Details
For the full technical specifications, detailed feature breakdowns, pricing, and exact availability dates across different regions, LG's official press release provides comprehensive information:
The Verdict?
LG's new Gram Pro 16-inch and 17-inch models represent a compelling evolution of the series. By integrating Intel's Core Ultra 7 processors with dedicated NPUs, LG is embracing the AI PC era and directly addressing past performance concerns. Coupled with the signature ultra-light design, stunning OLED display options, improved cooling, and Intel Evo certification, these laptops are poised to be serious contenders for professionals, creators, and power users who prioritize portability without sacrificing capability. The dream of a truly powerful, yet incredibly light, large-screen laptop feels closer than ever.
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