Intel's New MSI Claw 8 EX AI+ Handheld: A Glimpse at the Design
It looks like the MSI Claw 8 EX AI+ handheld, powered by Intel's new Arc G-series chips, will have a pinch of ROG Xbox Ally to it. While other handhelds have been lapping up AMD chips, the MSI Claw has always been a go-to for Intel-powered devices. With the recent launch of Intel Arc G-series processors, it’s no surprise that MSI is preparing a new iteration of its Claw line. A supposed Vietnamese promotional image of the MSI Claw 8 EX AI+ has surfaced, offering a first look at the device's design.
According to a Redditor, the leaked image appears to have originated from press materials shared by a Vietnamese media outlet. The image was later shared on the MSI Claw Discord server, and VideoCardz claims to have obtained it independently, increasing the likelihood of its authenticity. However, it's still considered unverified, so take it with a grain of salt.
The Claw 8 EX AI+ seems to blend standard handheld design with elements reminiscent of the ROG Xbox Ally X. The ROG Xbox Ally X introduced controller grips that jut out from the screen, similar to the PlayStation Portal, allowing for a larger display while maintaining grip comfort. The MSI Claw 8 EX AI+ doesn’t go as far as the ROG Xbox Ally, but the screen does extend slightly, giving it a more ergonomic feel compared to previous models.
In contrast, the Intel Arc G-series Acer handheld has opted for a smoother, more rounded design, akin to the Lenovo Legion Go S. This suggests that handheld makers are learning from past designs, aiming to improve comfort and usability. The older, angled designs of previous models, like the original Asus ROG Ally, may be considered less comfortable in comparison.
What to Expect from the MSI Claw 8 EX AI+
The MSI Claw 8 EX AI+ is expected to be a high-end device, given the Intel Arc G-series processors it will be running on. As of now, there is no official announcement from MSI, so details about price and release date remain unclear. However, retailer listings have already shown the new Claw priced at over $1,800 after currency conversions, suggesting it will be a premium product.
It's possible that MSI might release a non-Extreme G3 version of the Claw 8 EX AI+ with less storage and a more reasonable price tag in the future. This would cater to a broader audience looking for a more affordable option. Until then, gamers and tech enthusiasts will have to wait and see what MSI has in store for its latest handheld gaming PC.
