MSI considers switch to AMD’s Ryzen Z2 AI Extreme APU in upcoming Claw handheld generation

There are growing indications that MSI will no longer rely on Intel for the next generation of its Claw handhelds, but will instead use AMD’s new Ryzen Z2 AI Extreme APU in the future. This step would not only mean a technological reorientation, but would also mark the end of the previous exclusive relationship with Intel’s “Core Ultra” platform. The first rumors about this come from Haze2K1, who sees a prototype based on the new AMD APU already in the pipeline.

The current MSI Claw 8 AI is based on Intel’s Core Ultra 7 258V and was one of the first devices to use the Lunar Lake generation. Despite technical innovations and solid performance data, MSI does not seem to have achieved the desired success with the Intel platform – especially in comparison to the competition, which is increasingly relying on AMD.

Key technical data of the Ryzen Z2 AI Extreme APU

The rumored new APU from AMD, the Ryzen Z2 AI Extreme, is based on the Zen 5 architecture. It offers:

• 8 cores / 16 threads
• Maximum boost clock: 5.0 GHz
• Graphics unit: RDNA 3.5 with 16 compute units
• Integrated NPU for AI workloads
• TDP range: 15 to 35 watts

This APU was apparently designed specifically for use in handheld gaming devices and should be superior to previous Intel solutions in terms of both efficiency and gaming performance. The integration of a dedicated AI unit is likely to play a role, particularly with regard to upscaling techniques and adaptive performance.

Initial performance indicators: 20% faster than ASUS ROG Ally X

According to unofficial benchmarks – leaked via @CodeCommando_ – a device with Ryzen Z2 AI Extreme at 17 watts power consumption should be around 20% faster on average than the ASUS ROG Ally X with a comparable TDP. Accordingly, 22 games were tested. However, concrete figures or settings are missing, which sets certain limits to the classification. Nevertheless, this could be an indicator of a noticeable generation increase, especially with regard to mobility and runtime optimization.

https://x.com/Haze2K1/status/1910657855989952559

Exclusive commitment and platform strategy

The handheld market is currently characterized by fierce battles between AMD and Intel. Manufacturers who stick to one platform usually benefit from close cooperation, more favorable purchasing conditions and technical support services. The fact that MSI is now apparently turning away from Intel and towards AMD speaks for a longer-term platform decision. A dual strategy with AMD and Intel models seems unlikely, also for reasons of internal product maintenance. It is no coincidence that other manufacturers such as ASUS have already taken this path. AMD has now established a strong position in the handheld segment through targeted optimizations in architecture, efficiency and graphics performance – not least through specially adapted APUs such as the Z1 series and now the Z2 line.

Not yet official, but strategically plausible

MSI has not yet officially confirmed the switch to AMD. However, there is increasing evidence, for example from earlier leaks around CES 2025. It is therefore very likely that MSI is working on a new Claw model with AMD technology. Whether this is a complete platform commitment or just an additional model remains to be seen. Technically and economically, however, there is much to suggest a clear break with the previous Intel strategy.

Conclusion: Performance, efficiency and market trends speak in favor of AMD

If the rumors prove to be true, MSI should not only make a technically sensible decision by using the Ryzen Z2 AI Extreme APU, but also position itself better strategically in the handheld market. The combination of modern CPU architecture, powerful RDNA graphics and specialized NPU could make the decisive difference for the next generation of Claw devices – especially compared to competitors with older or less optimized platforms. The coming months should show whether speculation will become reality – and how Intel will react.

Source: CodeCommando_, Haze2K1