Recent filings with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) have shed light on some intriguing features of the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2. One of the most exciting revelations is the inclusion of Near Field Communication (NFC) technology, which strongly suggests that the new console will support Amiibo functionality. This feature, housed in the right Joy-Con as with the original Switch, raises an important question for fans: Will the Switch 2 be compatible with existing Amiibo figures that unlock in-game content?
The FCC documents also confirm that the Switch 2 can be charged via both its bottom USB-C port and a newly added top USB-C port, aligning with what fans anticipated following the console's official reveal. Moreover, the Switch 2 is set to support Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) networks, offering up to 80MHz of bandwidth, a step up from the Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) supported by the original Switch. There's no indication of support for Wi-Fi 7 or Wi-Fi 6E, as noted by The Verge.
Power specifications remain at a maximum of 15V for the Switch 2, but the filings mention an AC adapter that can go up to 20V. This leaves the actual charging speed somewhat uncertain, adding a layer of mystery to the console's power management.
A recent Nintendo patent hinted at a novel feature for the Switch 2's Joy-Con controllers: the ability to attach them upside down. This innovation, facilitated by magnets instead of the original rails, could allow players to customize the placement of buttons and the headphone port. If incorporated into the final product, this flipping capability could introduce unique gameplay mechanics, enhancing the gaming experience.
Nintendo Switch 2 - First Look
Should the Switch 2 incorporate the patented Joy-Con attachment mechanism, Nintendo is likely to provide a full explanation during the special Nintendo Direct event, scheduled for 6am Pacific / 9am Eastern / 2pm UK time on April 2.
The release of the Nintendo Switch 2 appears to be on the horizon, with speculation pointing to a launch window between June and September. This speculation is fueled by hands-on events scheduled through June and statements from Greedfall 2 publisher Nacon indicating a release before September.
The Switch 2 was unveiled in January with a trailer that confirmed backwards compatibility and the addition of a second USB-C port. However, many details, including other game titles and the function of a mysterious new Joy-Con button, remain undisclosed. The Joy-Con mouse theory, however, has been gaining traction among enthusiasts.
