MSI Claw 8 AI Plus launches with Lunar Lake CPU and bigger battery

This isn't the MSI Claw 8 but it's the special MSI Claw 7 Fallout Edition (Photo: MSI)

Just three months after a lukewarm reception for its first gaming handheld, MSI unveils the Claw 8 AI Plus. This upgraded model addresses key criticisms by incorporating Intel's new Lunar Lake CPU, promising significant performance gains. The screen size increases to eight inches while maintaining a smooth 120Hz refresh rate with variable rate refresh.

Battery life receives a major boost as well, matching the Asus ROG Ally X with an 80Wh battery. Connectivity improves with a second USB-C port featuring Thunderbolt 4 and a more convenient wall charger replaces the bulky two-cord setup of the original Claw. MSI also highlights improved tactile feedback on the shoulder buttons.

While details and visuals remain limited, we know Lunar Lake boasts up to 50% better GPU performance and increased power efficiency compared to the previous Meteor Lake chip.

Alongside the Claw 8 AI Plus, MSI announced a Fallout-themed version based on the original seven-inch Claw with Meteor Lake. Its success might be limited, especially considering the lack of the new Lunar Lake CPU. However, the press release mentions the "largest battery in the industry," hinting at potential hidden improvements.

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