MSI's new handheld, the Claw 8 EX AI+, is set to launch on June 23 and is anticipated to retail for around $1,500. This release follows the company’s previous models that debuted in 2024, which started at approximately $800. The announcement was made during a hands-on event at MSI's headquarters in Taipei, Taiwan, just before Computex 2026.
The Claw 8 EX AI+ showcases significant upgrades, including the Intel Arc G3 Extreme chip, an enhanced SSD design that allows for easy storage upgrades via an M.2 2280 slot, and a robust 80Wh battery. It features an eight-inch touchscreen with a resolution of 1,920 x 1,200 and a refresh rate of 120Hz.
Further improvements include advanced haptics and a more ergonomic design for its buttons and joysticks. MSI has not finalized the pricing for all configurations, suggesting the possibility of more budget-friendly options with reduced specifications. Competing products like the Acer Predator Atlas 8 and offerings from OneXPlayer are expected to enter the market, featuring similar performance capabilities with the Arc G3 Extreme chips.