MSI’s new gaming Claw series has Lunar Lake processors and nondescript ‘AI’ capabilities

MSI has two new versions of the MSI Claw after the first one came out with a bang earlier this year. The company’s $900 MSI Claw 8 AI+ and $800 Claw 7 AI+ feature a Lunar Lake Intel processor, better battery life and quality-of-life improvements like redesigned sticks, bumpers and triggers.

The previous model introduced a “late and expensive touch,” according to Engadget’s Sam Rutherford in our review. He said its performance was subpar compared to cheaper rivals, its software was clunky, and it was plagued by a glut of usability updates (perhaps because MSI scrambled to fix its long list of problems). We don’t have new models yet, but their replacement is Intel’s latest Core Ultra 7 processor it should it leads to better performance and lower power consumption – two big marks against the A1M.

The Claw 8 AI+ has an 8-inch (1,920 x 1,200) display, while the Claw 7 AI+ has a 7-inch (1,920 x 1,080) one. Both devices support a refresh rate of 120Hz. However, they are LCD panels; you still don’t get an OLED option here, like in other Valve and Lenovo options.

The Claw 8 has an 80Wh battery, while the 7-inch model has a 54.5Wh battery. It uses MSI’s Cooler Boost HyperFlow technology, which includes dual fans and heat pipes. The company says it outperforms “competitors” (without saying which ones) when it comes to power-saving 17W.

Each arm has Thunderbolt 4 ports, so you can connect a handheld device to the monitor and use it as a makeshift Windows PC. They even have CoPilot+ support built in.

MSI has redesigned the joysticks, bumpers, D-pad and triggers for the new generation. While the last model had Hall effect rods, the new ones also have them in their triggers. Ergonomics were a rarity in the previous model, and MSI refers to the new hand grips as “designed to fit the nature of the hand.”

As for AI in handheld branding, MSI may be referring to the XeSS enhancement technology on the Intel chip. However, the previous model also used XeSS, so maybe the company just wants to shout out to customers and investors that it uses AI.

The new mobile devices arrive on December 25. GameRant they note that their pre-order pages are listed out of stock (for now). Regardless, when you can buy them, the Claw 7 AI+ costs $800, while the Claw 8 AI+ will set you back $900.

MSI

MSI’s updated Claw mobile promises better performance and battery life.

$800 at Amazon