MSI has hinted at the release of its inaugural handheld gaming console, the MSI CLAW, which is poised to compete directly with alternatives like the ROG Ally and Steam Deck. The official MSI Twitter account shared a video teasing the upcoming launch of the MSI CLAW handheld gaming console. In response to this teaser, the official Intel Gaming account on X (formerly Twitter) also acknowledged the development, suggesting a potential collaboration between MSI and Intel.
This revelation is particularly intriguing as most handheld gaming consoles have historically utilized AMD processors. However, with Intel’s response to MSI’s teaser, there is speculation that the MSI CLAW might feature the latest Intel processors, particularly the recently launched Core Ultra processors known for their robust Meteor Lake graphics, including basic ray-tracing capabilities suitable for playing modern games.
According to leaked information, the MSI CLAW handheld gaming console is expected to be equipped with the Intel Core Ultra 7 155H processor. This particular processor’s specifications were unveiled through a Geekbench leak, with a multi-core benchmark score of 11543 points and a single-core score of 2403 points. This suggests a powerful performance, and more details about its capabilities are anticipated upon its official release.
MSI has confirmed that the CLAW gaming handheld will be showcased at CES 2024. The teaser video and additional images posted by hardware leaker @wxnod on X provide a glimpse of the handheld’s design, showcasing the ABXY controller layout and incorporating MSI’s distinctive dragon-inspired aesthetic.
The handheld gaming console market has witnessed increased competition, especially following the release of Valve’s Steam Deck in early 2022. Various brands, including ASUS with its ROG Ally, have ventured into this space, offering handheld gaming consoles that run on operating systems like Windows 11. The upcoming launch of MSI’s CLAW handheld gaming console adds another player to this dynamic market.
The mention of Intel Core Ultra chips in MSI’s latest gaming handheld suggests a notable advancement in terms of processing power, potentially elevating the device’s performance to serve as a portable personal computer. The ability to run Windows on devices like the ROG Ally or Steam Deck has already blurred the lines between handheld gaming consoles and traditional personal computers.
As CES 2024 approaches, more details about the MSI CLAW handheld gaming console are expected to emerge. The images provided by hardware leaker @wxnod have already generated excitement, and gamers are keen to explore the capabilities and features that MSI’s entry into the handheld gaming market will bring. The competition in this space continues to intensify, promising an exciting future for highly portable gaming devices.
