The Nintendo Switch 2 has finally been unveiled, bringing with it exciting new features and a closer look at the system's design. Among the highlights are the new Joy-Cons, which now come equipped with optical sensors that allow them to function as a mouse. However, a subtle yet significant improvement you might have missed in the initial reveal is the addition of a second USB-C port on the console.
Unlike the original Nintendo Switch, which only had a single USB-C port on the underside of the tablet, the Switch 2 boasts two Type-C ports. This change is more impactful than it might seem at first glance. The original Switch's single port often required the use of third-party adapters to connect multiple accessories, which could sometimes lead to issues such as bricking the console due to non-standard specifications.
The original Switch's USB-C port was not fully compliant with standard USB-C specifications. Instead, Nintendo used a custom spec that required reverse-engineering by third-party manufacturers to ensure their docks and accessories worked correctly without damaging the console. With the addition of a second USB-C port on the Switch 2, there's an expectation that Nintendo will adopt the standard USB-C specifications, enhancing compatibility with a wide range of accessories right out of the box.
USB-C standards have evolved significantly since 2017, now supporting high-speed data transfer, 4K display outputs, and even the capability to connect an external GPU via the Thunderbolt standard. The inclusion of a second port on the Switch 2 suggests that Nintendo is embracing these universal standards, which can handle various connections including external displays, networking, data transfer, and high-wattage power.
The bottom port on the Switch 2 might be more advanced, designed specifically for use with Nintendo's official dock where you'd plug in most of your accessories. Meanwhile, the top port ideally would support fast charging, display outputs, and other functionalities. Having two ports opens up the possibility of using external power banks alongside other accessories simultaneously, marking a significant quality-of-life improvement over the original console.
For more details on the Nintendo Switch 2, such as its mysterious C button, we'll need to wait until the Switch 2 Direct presentation on April 2, 2025.
Nintendo Switch 2 - First Look
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