(Updated October 26, 2024)
Nintendo has remained tight-lipped about its next-generation console, only officially confirming backward compatibility and a reveal before April 2025. However, the rumor mill has been churning, offering tantalizing glimpses of what might be in store. This article compiles and analyzes the most prominent leaks, separating fact from speculation and providing context on what a potential “Switch 2” could offer.
Hardware Leaks: Dissecting the Details
Several leaks, purportedly showcasing the Switch 2’s internals and design, have surfaced online. While their authenticity remains unverified, they offer intriguing possibilities.
Internal Hardware: A Potential Powerhouse?
Leaked images, allegedly depicting the console’s motherboard and PCB, suggest a significant hardware upgrade. The most compelling rumor points to 12GB of LPDDR5X RAM—a substantial leap from the original Switch’s 4GB. This upgrade could enable smoother gameplay, faster loading times, and more detailed game worlds.
A new Nvidia Tegra-based system-on-a-chip (SoC) is also rumored, potentially based on the Ampere architecture. Speculation around the manufacturing process varies, with rumors suggesting 8nm, 6nm, or even 5nm. A more advanced node would contribute to better performance and power efficiency. Some sources also suggest the SoC is codenamed “Drake” (T239) and features 10 Streaming Multiprocessors (SMs).
Display and Design: Bigger and Better?
Leaked CAD designs and blurry snapshots hint at a form factor similar to the original Switch but with a larger 8-inch LCD screen. While some earlier rumors suggested an OLED display, the current consensus leans towards LCD.
Images of a purported prototype further suggest a redesigned, more robust, U-shaped kickstand and dual USB-C ports (one on top, one on the bottom). The Joy-Cons also appear redesigned, possibly with a magnetic attachment mechanism, addressing the notorious “drift” issue. Whispers of Hall effect analog sticks add weight to this theory.
Feature Roundup: What to Expect
Beyond hardware, the leaks paint a picture of enhanced features and functionality.
4K Upscaling and DLSS: A Visual Leap?
Perhaps the most exciting rumor is the potential for 4K output when docked, achieved through DLSS-like upscaling technology. A recently unearthed US patent filing by Nintendo, describing AI upscaling, lends credibility to this speculation. Further rumors suggest support for both DLSS 2.0 and FSR 3, potentially allowing for 1080p handheld gaming and upscaled 4K when docked.
Backward Compatibility: Carrying Your Library Forward
Nintendo has officially confirmed backward compatibility with existing Switch games, a welcome feature for current Switch owners. This likely means the new console will accept existing game cartridges, though details about digital purchases remain unclear.
New “C” Button and Enhanced Camera: Hints of Innovation
Intriguing rumors mention a new “C” button on the right Joy-Con, though its function remains a mystery. Speculation also surrounds a revamped camera system, potentially incorporating AR or VR capabilities.
Release Date and Pricing: The Big Unknowns
While Nintendo has committed to a reveal before April 1, 2025, the precise release date remains elusive. Persistent rumors point towards late March 2025, specifically March 28th. However, some analysts believe a launch could slip into 2026. Potential factors for a delay include ensuring a strong launch game lineup (with Mario Kart 9 frequently mentioned) and preventing stock shortages.
Pricing is another open question. Given the rumored hardware upgrades and current market trends, a price point higher than the original Switch is likely.
Switch 2 vs. Steam Deck: A Handheld Showdown
The rumored Switch 2’s potential specs position it as a more direct competitor to Valve’s Steam Deck. While the Steam Deck boasts an open architecture and access to a vast PC game library, the Switch 2 could offer a more refined, family-friendly experience with exclusive Nintendo titles.
Rumored Specs Comparison: Switch 2 vs. Original Switch
| Feature | Rumored Switch 2 | Original Switch |
|---|---|---|
| Processor (CPU) | 8-core Cortex-A78AE (Nvidia Tegra T239 “Drake”) | Nvidia Tegra X1 |
| Graphics (GPU) | Nvidia Ampere (10 SMs) | Nvidia Maxwell |
| Memory (RAM) | 12GB LPDDR5X | 4GB LPDDR4 |
| Storage | 256GB (likely expandable) | 32GB (expandable) |
| Screen Size | 8-inch LCD | 6.2-inch LCD |
| Resolution | Possibly 720p/1080p handheld, 4K upscaled docked | 720p |
| Upscaling Tech | DLSS 2.0, FSR 3 | None |
Disclaimer
It’s crucial to remember that all information presented here is based on unofficial leaks and rumors. Nothing is confirmed until officially announced by Nintendo. This article will be updated as new information becomes available. Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below!
