A few months have passed since MSI last raised the prospect of releasing its second portable gaming console. As a reminder, the company unveiled the Claw 8 AI+ equipped with Intel Lunar Lake processors at Computex 2024 in June. She then demonstrated the same device in September at IFA 2024, where she released the following statement:
At IFA 2024, MSI will also provide further information on the Claw 8 AI+. The new Windows 11 gaming handheld will expand the Claw series lineup in early 2025. The Claw 8 AI+ is equipped with the new Intel Core Ultra Series 2 processor and delivers significantly increased AI performance.
Ultimately, MSI hasn’t confirmed a specific launch window. Likewise, most specifications have been left to speculation. Today, CES gave some indications on the launch date of the Claw 8 AI+, but also on the improved capacity of its battery.
On the one hand, the Claw 8 AI+ received the CES 2025 Innovation Award. Therefore, it seems that a January 2025 launch is on the agenda, although this is unlikely to happen. ‘extends to the official release of the device. On the other hand, CES revealed that the Claw 8 AI+ will complement its 8-inch screen with an 82 Wh battery, a capacity 2 Wh higher than that of the ROG Ally X battery.
In contrast, MSI is putting a 53Wh battery into the existing MSI Claw 8 AI+ (currently $471.18 at Amazon). Apparently, this 82 Wh battery will allow the Claw 8 AI+ to provide more than 4 hours of gameplay in triple A titles. However, we recommend that you wait for independent expert opinions before commenting on this point.
