MSI Unveils Claw 8 AI+ Polar Tempest: A $999 Gaming Handheld Powerhouse

May 12, 2025
MSI Unveils Claw 8 AI+ Polar Tempest: A $999 Gaming Handheld Powerhouse
  • The Claw 8 AI+ Polar Tempest is priced at $900, with shipping expected to start on July 15, 2025, just after the anticipated launch of the Switch 2.

  • The Claw 7 A2HM was discovered on an MSI spare parts page, hinting at a potential announcement during Computex 2025 in June.

  • However, availability in the US may be limited, and potential tariffs could increase the price further.

  • Pre-orders for the Polar Tempest began without any formal announcement, relying on word-of-mouth and select influencers for promotion.

  • Concerns have been raised about the high cost of the Claw 8 AI+, which may deter many gamers, especially if tariffs impact pricing.

  • The Claw 7 A2HM received Hi-Res Audio certification from the Japan Audio Society, indicating it is progressing towards a potential launch.

  • MSI has leaked details about its upcoming gaming handheld, the Claw 7 A2HM, while also officially announcing the Claw 8 AI+ Polar Tempest edition.

  • This new model is equipped with an 80 WHr battery, significantly larger than the Switch 2's estimated 20 WHr, allowing for extended gaming sessions.

  • The Polar Tempest edition features up to 2TB of internal storage, doubling the previous model's capacity while maintaining the same specifications.

  • Powered by an Intel Core Ultra 7 processor and 32GB of RAM, the Claw 8 AI+ promises strong performance for demanding games.

  • The Claw 7 A2HM's naming convention suggests it may feature an Intel chip, although specific processor details remain unclear.

  • With its new 2TB storage option, the Claw 8 AI+ is positioned as a premium handheld, likely surpassing competitors like the Steam Deck.

Summary based on 10 sources


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