In a welcome move for early adopters, Microsoft's latest Windows Insider build is reportedly bringing a coveted new "game mode" to a wider range of MSI's gaming handhelds than initially expected. While the spotlight has been firmly on the new MSI Claw 8 AI+, it appears that the original MSI Claw A1M and the Claw A8 are also receiving the performance-enhancing Full Screen Experience (FSE) update, giving their older hardware a new lease on life.
This development follows the recent rollout of the feature to the Claw 8 AI+, signaling a faster-than-anticipated expansion of Microsoft's handheld optimization efforts.
What is the Windows Full Screen Experience (FSE)?
For the uninitiated, the Full Screen Experience is Microsoft's direct answer to the buttery-smooth and streamlined gaming environment of Valve's SteamOS. Initially unveiled as a key feature for the high-profile Asus ROG Ally X, FSE is part of the upcoming Windows 11 25H2 update.
The mode's primary goal is to eliminate background processes and dedicate system resources entirely to the game running in full-screen mode. The result? Gamers can expect higher and more stable frame rates, reduced input lag, and a console-like, distraction-free interface when diving into their favorite titles. As detailed in a comprehensive report from PCGuide, this is a significant step forward for Windows on handhelds, an area where the OS has often been criticized for being clunky.
A Broader Rollout Than Announced
The news broke with the release of Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.7051. While Microsoft's official blog post was somewhat vague, merely stating that FSE mode was "rolling out to MSI Claw models," it didn't specify which exact models would be eligible.
This ambiguity led to immediate testing from the community. Eager owners of the original Intel-based MSI Claw 7 A1M and the AMD-powered Claw A8 quickly discovered that the new mode could be enabled on their devices through this Insider build. You can see the discussion and user confirmation unfolding in this thread on the MSI Claw subreddit, where enthusiasts are sharing their experiences and performance findings.
This is particularly good news for owners of the standard Claw 7 AI+, a device that has largely been overshadowed by its larger-screened successor. Despite having a smaller display and battery, the 7 AI+ now stands to gain meaningful performance improvements, keeping it competitive in the bustling handheld market.
What Does This Mean for Performance?
Early demonstrations, like the one from popular tech reviewer ETA Prime on the Claw 8 AI+, show that FSE does deliver tangible performance gains. Users can expect a few extra frames per second in demanding titles and an overall smoother gameplay experience. However, the consensus is that while the raw performance boost is welcome, the user interface and polish of FSE still have a way to go to match the seamless integration found in SteamOS.
The mode represents a foundational step. Microsoft is clearly investing in the handheld gaming segment, and refining this experience will be crucial as more devices hit the market. For now, enabling FSE on an older Claw model is like getting a free, lightweight performance patch directly from Microsoft.
The Bigger Picture for Handheld Gamers
The expansion of FSE to older MSI Claw models is a positive sign for the entire ecosystem. It indicates that Microsoft is committed to supporting a wider range of third-party hardware, not just the latest and greatest releases.
According to Microsoft's roadmap, other popular handhelds like the Lenovo Legion Go and the Asus ROG Ally X are expected to receive official FSE mode support in the "coming months." This creates a more level playing field and ensures that the Windows handheld gaming community as a whole benefits from ongoing software innovation.
For those interested in checking out the current generation of these devices, you can find the latest models, including the MSI Claw series, on Amazon.
The Bottom Line
If you own an older MSI Claw handheld, there's a new reason to be excited. The rollout of the Windows Full Screen Experience mode is a significant update that leverages software to extract more performance from your existing hardware. While it requires venturing into the Windows Insider Program for now, it offers a promising glimpse into a future where Windows on handhelds is not just powerful, but also polished and purpose-built for gaming.
Post a Comment