MSI is constructing two new Claw handhelds with Intel Lunar Lake

Reacting to early criticism, MSI is actually getting ready two new variations of its Claw gaming handheld for launch this fall, in accordance with the product’s product administration director, Clifford Chun. Talking with PCWorld, Chun revealed that along with the Claw 8 AI+, the corporate can also be engaged on a brand new 7-inch mannequin. Just like the 8 AI+, the 7-inch system will use an Intel Lunar Lake processor. For Lunar Lake as a complete Intel is promising as much as 60% higher battery life, and as much as 14% quicker CPU efficiency versus similar Meteor Lake clock speeds. GPU efficiency could also be as a lot as 50% higher.

The handhelds are getting different upgrades as nicely, together with improved bumper buttons, higher Intel drivers, extra responsive analog sticks, and a extra simply replaceable SSD, not hidden behind a fan. US variations of the Claw 8 AI+ will robotically get a bigger 80Wh battery pack versus the 53Wh one within the original Claw. That may solely be elective in different nations, and it is not but clear if an 80Wh possibility can be obtainable in any respect for the 7-inch redux.

The unique Claw has been broadly panned — primarily for efficiency and battery life points, but additionally for sleep/wake glitches and poor haptic suggestions. It is costlier than Valve Steam Deck OLED or the ASUS ROG Ally, though not the upgraded ROG Ally X.

Pricing, launch dates, and long-term plans

Whereas there is not any agency launch date for the brand new fashions, Chun says pricing needs to be roughly equal to present Claw configurations. That ought to translate to between $700 and $800 US.

MSI is individually engaged on full-fledged sequels to the Claw. “We’re already planning Claw 2, Claw 3, Claw 4,” Chun notes. “Now we have a protracted two-year roadmap down already. We’ll proceed pushing new kind components, new concepts, possibly even new CPUs.” The corporate is sticking with Intel CPUs for the following era, however might contemplate AMD processors for third- or fourth-generation merchandise.

Different sizes could also be attainable too, although Chun suggests it is extra possible we’ll see a six-inch kind issue if something. MSI reportedly experimented with five- and 10-inch fashions however discovered the previous too small, and the latter too heavy — which will not be stunning, since many smartphones are actually over six inches, and 10 inches is bigger than some tablets, such because the iPad mini.