SUMMARY
- The next Nintendo Switch handheld device, the Nintendo Switch 2, has not yet been officially announced.
- The upcoming handheld, unofficially called the Nintendo Switch 2, could be launched in 2024.
Although the next Nintendo Switch handheld device, the Nintendo Switch 2, has not yet been officially announced, the numerous leaks and rumors are enough to tell that the device is in the works. Considering that the Nintendo Switch is now six years old and running on aged hardware, it is no surprise that the company is working on its successor.
The upcoming handheld, unofficially called the Nintendo Switch 2, could be launched in 2024, if leaks are to be believed. Additionally, the countless leaks over the years have also revealed bits and pieces of information and details about the upcoming Nintendo device. Here’s everything that’s known so far:
Nintendo Switch 2 features
A report had suggested that Switch 2 might use Nvidia’s new custom variant T239 processor, which could be capable of running Death Stranding at 1080p at an average of 35 fps. Besides, Nintendo is likely expected to stick with Nvidia’s system-on-a-chip, similar to the next-generation version of the aged Tegra X1 chip found in the current Switch console.
It is also possible that Nintendo gets a custom chipset from Nvidia designed specifically for the Switch. At this point, it is a bit difficult to guess the potential power or clock speeds. However, it is expected that Nintendo will deliver enough CPU and GPU power to render a truly next-gen gaming experience.
Some rumors also suggested that there could be a potential co-processor chip to live in the dock of a Switch 2. This additional chip could help boost the console’s power and video output when it is docked and connected to a 4K TV.
Nintendo Switch 2 is also believed to take a visual leap and be capable of rendering visuals comparable to the PS5 and Xbox Series X, with support for ray tracing and the capability to run Unreal Engine 5. Talking of storage, it was leaked that it could have 512GB of RAM. Looking at the current 32GB and 64GB of the original Switch and Switch OLED, respectively, the 512GB is a massive upgrade.
A boost in battery life is also something that is expected from the upcoming Switch device. Another feature that fans are hopeful about is improved Wi-Fi connectivity for the Nintendo Switch 2.
The piece of Nintendo hardware to be used in the upcoming handheld console remains a mystery. However, former Nintendo employees have hinted that it will have a similar form factor to the current Switch. Moreover, it can be used as a handheld device as well as a dock for the TV, like the existing model does.
Nintendo Switch 2 display and design
Leakers had earlier revealed that the Switch 2 would feature an OLED panel, similar to that of the Switch OLED. However, it would include higher refresh rates, boosting the 60Hz display to 120Hz.
That being said, it is also to be noted that Sharp, the current manufacturer of Switch displays, is also reportedly working on a new LCD panel for a “new gaming console.” In all probability, it could be the Nintendo Switch 2. Additionally, a recent rumor has also hinted that Switch 2 could use an LCD display instead of OLED to keep production costs down.
The timing feels about right for Nintendo patent filings to be pretty directly for their next gen hardware.
If these are included as default on Switch 2 Joy-Cons, it’ll basically do away with stick drift as a concern.
— Laura Kate Dale – Mastodon “@LauraKBuzz@tech.lgbt” (@LaurakBuzz) September 11, 2023
Besides, Switch 2 may also come with upgraded Joy-Cons, improving the stick drift experience. It is also reported that Nintendo has filed a patent for a new controller design featuring Hall Effect joysticks. Breaking away from the usual, these sticks will make use of magnets to capture movement and will not cause any wear and tear on the sensor. This comes as a big relief since it would mean that the stick drift issue will not carry on to the next generation.
Nintendo Switch 2 price and release date
The price of the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 would take into account various factors, such as inflation, internal specs, and the prices of the current Nintendo Switch products. Here are the current prices of Nintendo Switch models:
- Nintendo Switch Lite: $199.99
- Nintendo Switch: $299.99
- Nintendo Switch OLED: $349.99
Kantan Games analyst Dr. Serkan Toto, noted as a Nintendo expert, says he believes that the Switch 2 will be out in 2024 and affirms that a Switch Pro was in the works at one point. https://t.co/0esF09QOwh pic.twitter.com/UmaMDx6nHI
— IGN (@IGN) January 4, 2024
Some leaks have suggested that the Nintendo Switch 2 could come with a price tag of $400. The handheld console is rumored to be launched in September 2024.
All being said, it must be noted that Nintendo has said nothing at all about its next console. They have only said that they want it to be a “surprise and delight” for fans. Thus, fans will have to wait a little longer to get any official confirmation from Nintendo.