MSI Unveils Claw 8 AI+ Polar Tempest: A $999 Gaming Handheld Powerhouse
May 12, 2025
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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