Recent filings with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for the Nintendo Switch 2 have unveiled that the next-generation console will support Near Field Communication (NFC). This revelation suggests that Amiibo figures will likely be compatible with the new system, just as they are with the current Switch. The NFC functionality is integrated into the right Joy-Con, mirroring the setup of the original Switch. This raises an intriguing question: will the Switch 2 be able to utilize existing Amiibo to unlock in-game content?
The FCC documents also confirm that the Switch 2 can be charged via its bottom USB-C port or a newly added top port, a feature that aligns with expectations set after the console's official unveiling. Moreover, the Switch 2 will support Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) networks, offering up to 80MHz of bandwidth, which is a step up from the Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) found in the original Switch. Notably, there's no mention of Wi-Fi 7 or Wi-Fi 6E in the filings, as pointed out by The Verge.
Power specifications for the Switch 2 remain consistent with a maximum rating of 15V, although an AC adapter capable of up to 20V is mentioned, leaving the actual charging speed a mystery for now.
Last month, a patent filed by Nintendo hinted that the Joy-Con controllers for the Switch 2 could be attached in an inverted position. This suggests that the Switch 2 might utilize gyro mechanics similar to those in smartphones without screen lock. Unlike the original Switch, which used rails for Joy-Con attachment, the new controllers would employ magnets, allowing for flexible attachment on either side. This design could offer players more freedom in button placement and other features, potentially leading to innovative gameplay mechanics if included in the final product.
Nintendo Switch 2 - First Look
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Should the patent's functionality be implemented in the Switch 2, Nintendo is expected to provide a full explanation during a special Nintendo Direct event, scheduled for 6am Pacific / 9am Eastern / 2pm UK time on April 2.
While Nintendo has yet to announce a release window for the Switch 2, speculation points towards a launch between June and September. This timeline is supported by upcoming hands-on events scheduled through June and a statement from Greedfall 2 publisher Nacon, indicating the console's release before September.
The Nintendo Switch 2 was introduced in January with a teaser trailer that confirmed backwards compatibility and the addition of a second USB-C port. However, many details such as the console's game lineup and the purpose of a new, mysterious button on the Joy-Con were omitted. The theory that this new button might function as a mouse control has gained some attention in the gaming community.
