Nintendo Switch 2: Exciting New Developments and Features Announced
After countless years of speculation, Nintendo has finally officially unveiled the Switch 2 this January. While the full range of features for the new console has yet to be disclosed, the company confirmed several details long anticipated by fans, including a bigger screen, revamped Joy-Cons with magnetic attachments, a redesigned kickstand, backward compatibility, and a prominent “2” design on both the console and dock.
In the time since the announcement, additional information about the Switch 2 has begun to emerge ahead of its complete reveal later this year. Nintendo has organized a worldwide tour to let fans experience the Switch 2 early. There’s also a new feature on the Joy-Cons, reportedly dubbed “mouse mode“, which allows users to move a controller on a table surface like a traditional mouse. Aside from these details, updates have been sparse—until now.
This article highlights the latest insights on the Switch 2, gleaned from the recent filings with the FCC, along with their implications for the console’s future.
NFC Capabilities Indicate Strong Amiibo Support
According to The Verge, Nintendo has submitted various documents to the FCC, revealing that the Switch 2 will be equipped with NFC (Near Field Communication) technology. This is the same system that enables Amiibo to connect wirelessly with the console, as well as being the technology behind contactless payment systems like Apple Pay and Google Pay. For those familiar with Amiibo functionality, it’s worth noting that NFC communication takes place through the right Joy-Con on the original Switch, and it seems this will be maintained with the Switch 2.
Introduction of an Additional USB-C Port
Another intriguing revelation from these filings focuses on the addition of a second USB-C port on the console. While this new port was visible in the official announcement video, its purpose had not been specified. Now it’s confirmed: players can charge the Switch 2 through either USB-C port, advantageous for those who enjoy portable gaming. Unlike the initial Switch model, where the USB-C port is located at the bottom—making charging awkward during tabletop gameplay with the kickstand—this side port design offers a much more user-friendly solution.
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Wi-Fi 6 Compatibility
Lastly, the documentation indicates that the Switch 2 will support Wi-Fi 6, boasting up to 80MHz of bandwidth. The previous model, the original Switch, utilized Wi-Fi 5, as its release predates the introduction of Wi-Fi 6 back in 2017. This upgrade promises quicker download speeds for games and enhanced online play, along with the potential for longer battery life, since Wi-Fi 6 has the ability to deactivate when not in use. However, the exact improvements in speed and battery efficiency of the Switch 2 over its predecessor will require real-world testing by game reviewers.
Save the Date: April 2nd for a Nintendo Direct
The release date for the Switch 2 has not yet been specified. However, Nintendo’s announcement video mentioned an upcoming Nintendo Direct scheduled for Wednesday, April 2 at 6 a.m. PDT, aimed at providing “an in-depth look at the Nintendo Switch 2.” Anticipation builds as fans await further revelations leading up to this date.