MSI Claw 8 AI+ Comes With Intel Lunar Lake CPU and Arc Battlemage GPU

MSI Claw 8 AI+: Larger Screen, Larger Battery, and New CPU

MSI’s presentation of the Claw 8 AI+ just three months after launching the Claw 7, its first handheld powered by the Intel Core Ultra 100 series, surprised everyone at Computex. The pricing hasn’t changed much to attract remaining customers though.

Those who were patient may soon consider the new Claw model equipped with the Core Ultra 200V “Lunar Lake” processor. It will be more power-efficient and feature even more powerful graphics. MSI is also expected to update the physical design and put in a larger screen and battery.

As a reminder, the Claw 8 AI+ (MSI could have really dropped the “AI+”, as it makes no sense for this product) will come with a larger 8-inch screen and a bigger battery. The company confirmed at Computex that the battery will be at least 80Wh, a detail now confirmed through the first official slide.

MSI CLAW 7 vs. MSI CLAW 8 AI+

• SoC: Intel Core Ultra 100H (Meteor Lake) ➡️ Core Ultra 200V (Lunar Lake)
• Memory: LPDDR5-6400 ➡️ LPDDR5X-8533
• Screen: 7-inch 120Hz VRR ➡️ 8-inch 120Hz VRR
• Battery: 53 Wh ➡️ 80 Wh
• USB: 1x Thunderbolt 4 ➡️ 2x Thunderbolt 4
• SSD Storage: M.2 2230 ➡️ M.2 2280

MSI has not yet confirmed the Lunar Lake SKU, which is still under embargo, but the remaining specs are now confirmed. The handheld will feature an 8-inch 16:10 Full HD screen with a 120 Hz refresh rate, 500 nits brightness, and IPS-level quality with Variable Refresh Rate support. The 8-inch handheld market is currently being utilized by devices such as the Lenovo Legion Go and AYANEO Kun, both of which are considered premium.

Perhaps the biggest update is the 80Wh battery, which is 50% larger than that of the Claw 7. As a result, the device will weigh more and have a larger physical footprint (details yet to be confirmed). This battery capacity will match that of the ROG Ally X, the updated Ryzen Z1 Extreme version that still uses a 7-inch screen.

MSI has not yet confirmed the release date. However, with media briefings already underway and the Lunar Lake launch scheduled for September 3rd, it is very likely that the handheld will be among the first products to be fully disclosed. Hopefully, it won’t be as expensive as the 7-inch device, though there are doubts MSI will adjust its pricing.

Advantages of a Larger Battery

1. Extended Usage Time: A larger battery means you can use the device for longer periods without needing to recharge. This is particularly beneficial for gaming sessions, travel, or any situation where you might not have easy access to a power source.
2. Improved Performance: With more battery capacity, the device can support higher performance levels for longer durations. This is crucial for gaming, where consistent power is needed to maintain high graphics and processing performance.
3. Reduced Charging Frequency: A larger battery reduces the need for frequent charging, which can be convenient and also help prolong the overall lifespan of the battery by reducing the number of charge cycles.
4. Enhanced Portability: While a larger battery might add some weight, it also means you can rely on the device for extended periods without carrying a charger or power bank, making it more portable and user-friendly.
5. Better Power Management: Devices with larger batteries often come with advanced power management features that optimize battery usage, ensuring that the device runs efficiently and effectively.

MSI Claw 8 AI+ Features

1. 8-Inch Full HD Display: The device boasts an 8-inch 1920x1080 Full HD screen with a 120 Hz refresh rate, 500 nits brightness, and IPS-level quality with Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) support.
2. Intel Lunar Lake Processor: It is powered by the Intel Core Ultra 200V “Lunar Lake” processor, which promises better power efficiency and more powerful graphics.
3. Advanced Cooling System: The Claw 8 AI+ features a dual-fan, dual-heatpipe cooling system called “Cooler Boost Hyperflow,” ensuring the device stays cool during intense gaming sessions.
4. Enhanced Joysticks and Triggers: The device includes advanced Hall effect joysticks and triggers, providing exceptional precision and durability.
5. Dual Thunderbolt 4 Ports: It comes with two Thunderbolt 4 ports, allowing for high-speed data transfer and connectivity to external devices.
6. Larger Battery: The 80Wh battery offers extended usage time, making it ideal for long gaming sessions.
7. Memory and Storage: It supports up to 32GB of LPDDR5X-8533 memory and features an M.2 2280 SSD for storage, ensuring fast performance and ample space for games and applications.
8. Connectivity: The device includes Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4 for fast and reliable wireless connections.
9. Fallout-Themed Version: MSI has also announced a special Fallout-themed version of the Claw 8 AI+, featuring a unique design inspired by the Fallout series.

These features make the MSI Claw 8 AI+ a powerful and versatile handheld gaming device, ready to compete with other premium handhelds on the market.