CES has potentially revealed the launch date of MSI’s long-awaited Intel Lunar Lake-powered gaming handheld. Not only that, but the Consumer Technology Association has also hinted that the MSI Claw 8 AI+ may even eclipse the Asus ROG Ally X when it comes to battery life.

A few months have passed since MSI last discussed the prospect of releasing its second gaming handheld. For context, the company revealed the Claw 8 AI+ with Intel Lunar Lake processors during Computex 2024 in June. Following that, it showcased the same device in September at IFA 2024 where it issued the following statement:

At IFA 2024, MSI will also provide further insights into the Claw 8 AI+. The new Windows 11 gaming handheld will expand the range in the Claw series at the beginning of 2025. The Claw 8 AI+ is equipped with the new Intel Core Ultra Series 2 processor and offers significantly increased AI performance.

Ultimately though, MSI did not confirm a specific launch window. Likewise, it left most specifications up to speculation. Now, CES has offered a few insights into not just when the Claw 8 AI+ will make its full debut, but also its improved battery capacity.

On the one hand, the Claw 8 AI+ is a CES 2025 Innovation Award Honoree. Consequently, it seems that a January 2025 launch is on the cards, although this is unlikely to extend to the device’s official release. On the other hand, CES has revealed that the Claw 8 AI+ will complement its 8-inch display with a 82 Wh battery, which is a 2 Wh higher capacity than even the battery inside the ROG Ally X.

By contrast, MSI installs a 53 Wh battery in the existing MSI Claw (curr. $471.18 on Amazon). Apparently, this 82 Wh battery will allow the Claw 8 AI+ to provide over 4 hours of gameplay in triple-A titles. However, we would recommend waiting for independent reviews before passing judgement in this regard.

(Image source: CES)