Could the Nintendo Switch 2 be coming soon? Nintendo has a history of innovation when it comes to developing new gaming devices. While not all of their innovations have been equally successful, a recent patent suggests that the Japanese gaming giant may be considering a dual-screen, detachable device for the future. Some experts speculate that this design concept could potentially be used in a future iteration of the Nintendo Switch, often referred to as the “Nintendo Switch 2”.
Game Rant has shared images of Nintendo’s recently filed patent, and at an initial glance, the design appears to strongly resemble the Nintendo 3DS. It’s worth noting that the 3DS was a highly successful gaming console, ranking as the 12th best-selling game console of all time, with nearly 76 million units sold throughout its lifetime.
There are notable distinctions between Nintendo’s patent and the 3DS, which was discontinued in 2020. The new Nintendo Switch 2 design features a touchscreen on the exterior of the handheld device, enabling users to interact with it even when it’s closed. This design concept seems to draw inspiration from foldable smartphones like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold and the Google Pixel Fold, which incorporate similar foldable screen technology.
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What Could the New Nintendo Switch 2 Look Like?
An intriguing feature of this design is the detachable nature of the top and bottom halves of the device. These separated halves could potentially communicate wirelessly, facilitating two-player gaming without the need for a second handheld device. This innovation could open up new possibilities for multiplayer gaming experiences on a single device.
Whether elements of this design will be incorporated into the speculated “Nintendo Switch 2” is a topic of debate. Notably, the device depicted in the patent appears to be designed for handheld use only, without the inclusion of a docking station. Given the remarkable success of the Nintendo Switch, which has become the third best-selling console ever since its release in 2017, it may be challenging to envision Nintendo making such a significant departure from their winning formula. It’s important to remember that patents don’t guarantee the development of an actual product, and many concepts may remain on paper without ever reaching the consumer market.
In September, reports surfaced claiming that Nintendo had conducted private presentations of a possible successor to the Nintendo Switch during Gamescom 2023 in Germany a month prior. Attendees were reportedly treated to demonstrations showcasing the system’s enhanced specifications, which included technical improvements and featured a modified version of “The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild”.
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Nintendo has emphasised on multiple occasions its intention to ensure a smooth transition from the current Switch console to its next-generation system, presumed to be the “Nintendo Switch 2”. They have indicated that the Nintendo Account system will play a pivotal role in facilitating this seamless transition for users. This approach aims to provide a user-friendly experience and continuity for Nintendo gamers as they move to the new console.
“In the past, every device we transitioned to have a whole new account system. Creating the Nintendo Account will allow us to communicate with our players if and when we make a transition to a new platform, to help ease that process or transition,” said Nintendo of America president Doug Bowser.
In recent Nintendo-related news, the company has made updates to its content guidelines. These revisions now clearly state that Nintendo will utilise DMCA takedowns for various forms of content, including videos on social media, that involve modified games, emulators, and any materials obtained through data mining. Nintendo’s move to enforce copyright protection and restrict the use of such content aligns with their longstanding stance on the preservation of their intellectual property.
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Could the Nintendo Switch 2 Have VR support?
Nintendo did experiment with VR functionality in the past through its Labo kits a few years ago. However, implementing a full-fledged VR system akin to Sony’s PSVR 2 would require substantial hardware capabilities. While it’s not beyond the realm of possibility, it does seem challenging for Nintendo to release a handheld gaming system that combines console-quality graphics with robust VR capabilities.
Such a system would demand powerful hardware, and it’s uncertain whether it aligns with Nintendo’s traditional approach of balancing innovation with practicality and accessibility. Nintendo’s strategy often revolves around delivering unique and enjoyable gaming experiences, so their approach to VR, if pursued, may differ from other companies in the industry.
Could Nintendo Switch 2 Look Like This?
Could the Nintendo Switch 2 Support 4K?
Nintendo has a distinct approach to hardware that sets it apart from other gaming console producers. While Sony and Microsoft have been focused on pushing 4K gaming, Nintendo has chosen not to follow the same path. This decision is rooted in Nintendo’s unique strategy of prioritising innovative gaming experiences over technical specifications.
In an interview, Nintendo France General Manager Philippe Lavoué expressed a similar sentiment, stating that 4K technology has not yet been widely adopted by the majority of consumers. Consequently, he suggested that it would be premature for Nintendo to embrace 4K at this time.
Nintendo Switch 2: Are You Excited for the New Console?
Historically, Nintendo has been cautious with adopting new display technologies. It wasn’t until 2012, with the release of the Wii U, that Nintendo entered the HD console market. This move came several years after Sony and Microsoft had already made the transition to HD. Shigeru Miyamoto, a prominent figure at Nintendo, has admitted that he wished Nintendo had made the transition to HD gaming sooner, as the technology became popular earlier than they anticipated.
Nintendo’s approach to hardware and technology often revolves around striking a balance between innovation and practicality, which may lead to them adopting new technologies at their own pace and in their own unique way.