Engadget Roundup: MSI Claw 8 EX AI+, Sony A7R VI, Ray-Ban Meta Optics, and Beyond

Summer’s review season is here and we have a new selection of gadgets that we’ve tested recently. If you’re interested in gaming handhelds, smart eyewear, smart speakers, as well as cameras for professional and vlogging use, you won’t want to miss this roundup. Continue reading to catch up on reviews you may have overlooked before our next set comes out.

The market is constantly introducing new gaming handhelds, and the MSI Claw 8 EX AI+ stood out significantly in our evaluations. It’s on the pricier side, but its performance is top-notch, as noted by our senior review writer. “The Claw 8 EX is a formidable handheld that elevates mobile PC gaming performance to unprecedented levels,” he remarked, adding, “Unfortunately, its cost may put it out of reach for many consumers unless they have substantial budgets.”

When it comes to Sony cameras, users often have to choose between speed and resolution. With the introduction of the A7R VI, the company finally offers both in one model. This blend results in an almost perfect high-resolution camera, according to one of our contributing writers. “The A7R VI is Sony’s most remarkable camera in years, providing ultra-high-resolution images alongside strong speed,” he explained. “While it’s primarily tailored for portrait and landscape photography, action photographers may also find it appealing due to the extra megapixels for cropping distant subjects.”

The collaboration between Ray-Ban and Meta has produced various options for smart glasses enthusiasts, and they’ve recently introduced models compatible with prescription lenses. Though they’re expensive, they offer a more comfortable fit compared to earlier iterations. “If you’re already a fan of Ray-Ban Meta glasses and need prescription options, the Optics line is certainly the most comfortable and premium choice available,” said our senior reporter. “The key question remains whether the price can be justified.”

Insta360 is setting its sights on competing with DJI in the gimbal camera market and has beaten them to introduce a dual-lens model. The Luna Ultra features optical zoom and a handy detachable display, and its most appealing aspect right now is its availability. “The Luna Ultra is an excellent vlogging camera on its own,” remarked one of our contributing review writers. “Insta360 has made a strong entry into this category, leaving us eager to see how DJI responds.”

Google has launched a new smart speaker as part of its Gemini for Home initiative. However, its ultimate utility might take a while to assess. “For those already using Google or Nest speakers and dissatisfied with their experience on the Google Home app and Gemini, this new speaker won’t significantly change that,” noted our deputy news editor. “We hope Google continues to enhance the software side, as the Google Home Speaker performs well enough to meet expectations.”

If you have concerns that AI could hinder your experience with smart glasses, you might want to skip this one. Our senior writer found a rather unsettling AI assistant within the XGIMI MemoMind One glasses, despite the device showcasing several impressive features. “Interestingly, I enjoy using MemoMind One as my regular glasses, as having a second display is incredibly useful,” he shared. “However, there are some finer details that need further refinement before they are truly ready. Perhaps this is something the AI assistant could wish for, setting itself aside before the product is launched.”