Recent filings with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) have shed light on some exciting features of the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, including support for Near Field Communication (NFC). This means that fans can look forward to using Amiibo figures with the next-gen console, just as they do with the current model. The NFC functionality, which includes Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), will be housed in the right Joy-Con, maintaining the familiar setup from the original Switch. However, it remains to be seen whether the Switch 2 will support existing Amiibo that unlock in-game content.
Additionally, the FCC filings confirm that the Switch 2 can be charged through either its bottom or a new top USB-C port, a feature many fans anticipated after the console's initial reveal. The device will also support Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) networks, offering up to 80MHz of bandwidth, a step up from the Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) found in the original Switch. Notably, there's no mention of support for Wi-Fi 7 or Wi-Fi 6E in these filings.
The Switch 2 is rated for a maximum of 15V, but the filings mention a potential AC adapter that can go up to 20V, leaving the actual charging speed uncertain at this point.
A recent Nintendo patent suggests an innovative feature for the Switch 2's Joy-Con controllers: the ability to attach them upside down. This change from the original Switch's rail system to a magnetic attachment could allow for greater flexibility in controller setup, potentially influencing gameplay mechanics by letting players choose the positioning of buttons and ports. If this feature makes it into the final product, it could open up new gameplay possibilities.
Nintendo Switch 2 - First Look
If the Nintendo Switch 2 incorporates the patented Joy-Con feature, Nintendo is expected to provide full details at the special Nintendo Direct event scheduled for April 2 at 6am Pacific / 9am Eastern / 2pm UK time.
While Nintendo has yet to announce an official release window, speculation suggests the Switch 2 could hit the market between June and September. This is inferred from planned hands-on events up until June and statements from Greedfall 2 publisher Nacon indicating a release before September.
The Nintendo Switch 2 was first teased in January with a trailer that confirmed backwards compatibility and the addition of a second USB-C port. However, many details remain undisclosed, such as the full lineup of games, and the function of a mysterious new button on the Joy-Con, which has fueled speculation about a possible mouse-like feature for the controller.
