Many Nintendo enthusiasts are excitedly anticipating news about the upcoming release of the Nintendo Switch 2, which is rumoured to be the next version of the popular hybrid console that was released in 2017. It is expected that the Switch 2 will boast significant enhancements in terms of performance, display quality, and features compared to the current model, as well as a fresh design and name. Here’s the latest information on the Nintendo Switch 2, based on rumours and speculations.
Nintendo Switch 2: Release date and price
It has not been confirmed by Nintendo that there will be a Nintendo Switch 2, but sources suggest that there may be an announcement later this year or early 2024. This aligns with the typical console lifecycle of six to seven years. According to a recent leak from Windows Central Manager Editor, Jez Corden, the Switch 2 may have been shown privately at this year’s Gamescom event. This suggests that the release of the Switch 2 may be sooner than anticipated.
As for the price of the Switch 2, it could be around $399 (approx Rs 33,000), which is only $50 more than the latest Switch OLED.
Nintendo Switch 2: Specs (Rumoured)
There are rumours that the upcoming Switch 2 might have an Nvidia processor instead of the Tegra X1 SoC currently used by Nintendo. This new processor could potentially allow the Switch 2 to display graphics in 4K resolution when connected to a dock, as well as support advanced technologies like ray tracing and DLSS. This would put it on par with other current-generation gaming consoles.
Further, the Switch 2 is supposed to use OLED displays that will offer better contrast, colour accuracy, and viewing angles than LCD displays. The screen size and resolution of the Switch 2 are still unknown, but speculations suggest it could be larger and sharper than the 7-inch 720p display of the Switch OLED.
The camera sensors may also receive an upgrade on the Nintendo Switch 2. The current Switch has a single camera on the back of the console, which is mainly used for scanning QR codes and amiibo figures. However, the Switch 2 could have multiple cameras on both sides of the console, which could allow for head tracking and motion sensing in VR games.
The Switch 2 may also feature a user-replaceable battery, as the same is being pushed by the European Union. New regulations are mandating that future consumer gadgets like gaming handhelds must feature user-replaceable batteries by 2027.
Nintendo Switch 2: Additional information
Apart from these, it is expected that Switch 2 will have backwards compatibility with not only the current Switch titles but also the accessories of the existing Switch. This includes Joy-Cons, Pro Controllers, docks, and chargers. However, some new accessories could also be introduced for the Switch 2, such as VR headsets, wireless headphones, and styluses.
As for games, leaks say that a new Mario game is in development for the Switch 2. Not only that, but we could also see sequels to popular franchises such as The Legend of Zelda, Metroid, Animal Crossing, Pokemon, and Splatoon. Nintendo may also bring other famous titles to Switch, such as Call of Duty, GTA and more.
The design of the console is still under wraps. However, instead of a major redesign, Nintendo could simply refine the current design of the Switch, such as reduced bezels along with a more ergonomic approach. Lastly, rumours suggest that Nintendo Switch 2 could be called Nintendo Focus. Alternatively, Nintendo could simply call it the New Nintendo Switch or something similar instead of labelling it as Switch 2.
