The MPi 69 is shaped much like other telescoping bolt submachineguns, such as the MAC 10 or Uzi.

It has a vertical pistol handgrip into which the magazine is inserted, and a longer horizontal front grip area; it also has a folding stock.

Featuring a design unusual among modern submachine guns, the MPi 69 is cocked by a dual-purpose lever also used as the front sling attachment point.

The receiver proper is a square metal tube which partly nestles inside the plastic handgrip.

In 1990, the MPi 81 was replaced by the TMP in the product line, though the TMP was also discontinued by Steyr, which sold the design to Brügger & Thomet; it was subsequently improved as the Brügger & Thomet MP9.