MSI's Claw 8 EX AI+ handheld comes out on June 23

Editor's take

MSI is launching a new premium gaming handheld, the Claw 8 EX AI+, on June 23, positioning it as a high-end device for PC gaming on the go. This iteration, likely featuring updated Intel Lunar Lake processors, aims to compete with devices like the Steam Deck OLED and Asus ROG Ally, but at a significantly higher expected price point of around $1,500.

The significance lies in MSI's continued push into the PC handheld market, specifically targeting the enthusiast segment with a premium offering. The inclusion of "AI+" in the name suggests an emphasis on AI-accelerated features, potentially leveraging Intel's new AI capabilities for enhanced gaming performance or other onboard functionalities, though specific details remain scarce. This move signals a growing diversification within the PC hardware space, with manufacturers exploring new form factors and integrated AI.

Future developments to monitor include the actual AI performance gains delivered by the new Intel chips and whether the $1,500 price tag justifies the premium over existing, more established competitors. Crucially, understanding how these AI enhancements translate into tangible benefits for gamers, beyond marketing nomenclature, will determine the Claw 8 EX AI+'s market reception and its impact on the evolving landscape of portable PC gaming.