MSI Announces Upcoming Handheld Gaming PCs

If you still think about purchasing the original MSI Claw, think again. MSI has revealed not one, but two successors to the embarrassing handheld, with a potential third on the way at CES in January.

New Features and Design Improvements

MSI showcased the eight-inch Lunar Lake version called MSI Claw 8 AI Plus at Computex, with plans to introduce a seven-inch version powered by Intel’s Lunar Lake chips this fall. Both models will feature revised bumpers, improved drift-resistant joysticks, two Thunderbolt 4 ports, and an easier-to-replace SSD. The new handhelds will come with better Intel drivers this time around.

Battery Pack and Pricing

In the US, every Claw 8 will come with an 80-watt-hour pack, but this will be optional in other regions. The cost of the new Claw 8 and Claw 7 is expected to be similar to the current MSI Claw, priced around $700–$800.

Future Plans and Innovation

MSI is dedicated to handheld gaming PCs, with plans for future models beyond the Claw 8 and Claw 7. Product management director Clifford Chun hinted at upcoming releases and a two-year roadmap for new form factors and ideas, including the possibility of new CPUs.

Possibility of AMD Integration

While MSI is currently focused on Intel chips, Chun teased the potential for future handhelds to feature AMD processors in upcoming models like Claw 3 or Claw 4. The company aims for handhelds to be a similar size or larger than current offerings, with consideration for user feedback and preferences.

Responding to Feedback and Improvements

Chun acknowledged the initial challenges faced with the original Claw, describing it as a learning curve. However, MSI is committed to listening to user feedback and quickly addressing any issues to enhance the overall gaming experience.

Continued Innovation and Customer Engagement

MSI believes in the potential of handheld gaming devices and encourages feedback from users to drive continuous improvement. While this may not provide solace to early adopters of the original Claw, it signals a competitive future in the handheld gaming market.

Cite: PCWorld