MSI has announced its next PC gaming handheld at COMPUTEX 2026, and it’s a pretty big deal as the first of its kind in the world to feature the new Intel Arc G3 series processors, but that newfound power will come at quite the cost.
As the first wave of Intel chipsets geared specifically toward handheld gaming, the Arc G3 series is an exciting development in the field, marrying cutting-edge performance with power efficiency, and it should bridge the gap even closer between gaming on the go and what we expect from AAA games on dedicated desktop setups. These new processors are designed around the Panther Lake architecture, clocking in at 14 CPU cores and with either Arc B370 or B390 graphics – all while consuming significantly less power than AMD’s Ryzen Z2 Extreme, according to Intel.
The MSI Claw 8 EX AI+ sports the juiciest version, too, the Intel Arc G3 Extreme, as well as an 8-inch 120Hz VRR display, 32GB LPDDR5x-8533 RAM, 1TB SSD and updated controls and haptic feedback. So it’s no surprise that it’s slated to cost up to USD $1500 (almost AUD $2100) when it launches later in June 2026.
The Claw 8 EX AI+ (bit of a mouthful) will run on Windows 11, and support Xbox Mode. Check out more images below:
And here’s what MSI said in a press release:
MSI Claw 8 EX AI+
“The Claw 8 EX AI+ is the world’s first handheld gaming device powered by Intel® Arc™ G3 Extreme processors, the first Intel platform specifically optimized for handheld gaming. It delivers a significant leap in graphics performance, enabling exceptional AAA gaming on handheld devices while maintaining strong power efficiency for extended play sessions.
“Built on the latest Intel Xe graphics architecture and enhanced by XeSS 3 with Multi-Frame Generation (MFG), the device enables high frame-rate gaming with improved visual smoothness and responsiveness.
“Designed for sustained gaming on the go, the Claw 8 EX AI+ features an 8-inch 120Hz VRR display, delivering fluid visuals across a wide range of titles. The redesigned chassis incorporates ergonomic grips for enhanced comfort during long sessions, while Hall-effect triggers and sticks, along with refined bumpers and a responsive D-pad, provide greater precision and control for a more immersive gaming experience.
“The device also introduces a new high-end linear motor, offering faster response times, more refined haptic feedback that simulates tactile textures, and improved power efficiency—further elevating the overall gameplay experience.
“On the software side, the Claw 8 EX AI+ brings compatibility with intuitive Xbox Mode, enabling quick game launches and seamless resume. A redesigned Quick Settings also lets users easily adjust features such as Multi-Frame Generation and in-game frame control to optimize performance.
“Finished in a distinctive Void Purple colorway, the Claw 8 EX AI+ stands out with a bold and modern design, reinforcing its position as a premium handheld gaming device.”
What do you think of this new MSI handheld? Would you spend north of $2000 on it? Let us know in the comments or on our social pages!