MSI shows Arc G3 PCB for Claw 8 EX AI+ handheld
MSI’s next Claw handheld is no longer limited to renders and retail listings. The Claw 8 EX AI+ has now appeared in real hands-on photos from Taipei, with MSI also showing the mainboard built around Intel’s new Arc G3 Extreme processor for gaming handhelds.
The new handheld is based on Intel’s Panther Lake-derived Arc G3 Extreme chip. Intel lists this processor with 14 CPU cores, including 2 P-Cores, 8 E-Cores and 4 LP E-Cores. It also has Arc B390 graphics with 12 Xe3 cores, a 4.7 GHz maximum CPU clock, LPDDR5X-8533 support, 25W base power and up to 80W maximum turbo power.
Arc G3 Extreme SoC, Source: Short Circuit/ZDNET
The PCB photo also confirms that MSI is using Intel’s larger Panther Lake-class package. Intel lists Arc G3 Extreme as an FCBGA2540 package measuring 50mm x 25mm, the same package size listed for the Core Ultra X9 388H. This means the Claw 8 EX AI+ does not use a smaller handheld-only chip. Intel already has a smaller 35mm x 25mm package for Wildcat Lake, but that platform targets lower-power systems with smaller graphics.
Arc G3 Extreme SoC, Source: Short Circuit/ZDNET
Updates for Claw 8 EX
MSI has also made several changes around the chip. According to ZDNET, the cooling system was redesigned for Arc G3 Extreme, with higher air pressure and improved airflow. The Shortcut reports that MSI’s Cooler Boost HyperFlow design adds a second fan and two heat pipes, while both fans push 25% higher pressure airflow.
The chassis has also been changed. The new model is reportedly 20 grams lighter and uses wider grips with a laser-etched texture. The controls have been updated with Hall Effect thumbsticks, rounded ABXY buttons and a new metal-gated D-Pad. MSI has also replaced the old rumble motors with a linear motor setup and new software algorithm for “HD Haptics.”
Storage upgrades should be easier too. ZDNET reports that MSI moved to an M.2 2280 PCIe 4.0 SSD, which can be replaced after removing the back cover. However, MSI says compatible SSDs need components on one side only.
MSI plans to launch the product in major national markets starting June 23. The product, equipped with the Arc G3 Extreme SoC, 32GB of LPDDR5X memory, and a 1TB SSD, is priced at $1,500 (approximately 2.3 million won).
— ZDNET (translation)
The confirmed configuration includes Arc G3 Extreme, 32GB of LPDDR5X memory, a 1TB SSD, an 8-inch 1920×1200 120Hz touchscreen and an 80Wh battery. MSI is planning a global launch on June 23, with pricing expected around $1,500. Regional pricing has not been confirmed yet.
Source: MSI, ShortCircuit , ZDNET
