Recent filings for the Nintendo Switch 2 have revealed that the next-gen console will support Near Field Communication (NFC), suggesting that Amiibo figures will continue to be compatible. According to The Verge, the Federal Communication Commission (FCC) documents confirm that the Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) feature is integrated into the right Joy-Con, similar to the original Switch. This raises the question: will the Switch 2 be able to use existing Amiibo to unlock in-game content?
The FCC filings also confirm that the Switch 2 can be charged via its bottom USB-C port or a new top port, aligning with expectations set after the console's official reveal. Additionally, the Switch 2 will support Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) networks with bandwidth up to 80MHz, an upgrade from the Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) of the original Switch. Notably, there is no mention of Wi-Fi 7 or Wi-Fi 6E in the filings, as pointed out by The Verge.
While the Switch 2 remains rated for a maximum of 15V, the filings mention an AC adapter capable of up to 20V, leaving the actual charging speed unclear.
Last month, a Nintendo patent hinted that the Switch 2’s Joy-Con controllers might be attachable upside down. This suggests that the Switch 2 will incorporate gyro mechanics similar to those found in smartphones without screen lock. Unlike the original Switch, which used rails to secure the Joy-Cons, the new controllers will utilize magnets, allowing them to attach on either side. This design change, if implemented, could offer players the flexibility to customize the placement of buttons and ports, potentially leading to innovative gameplay mechanics.
Nintendo Switch 2 - First Look
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If the Switch 2 adopts this patent's design, Nintendo is likely to showcase this feature at the special Nintendo Direct event scheduled for 6am Pacific / 9am Eastern / 2pm UK time on April 2.
The release of the Nintendo Switch 2 is anticipated to be between June and September, as hinted by ongoing hands-on events until June and statements from Greedfall 2 publisher Nacon suggesting a launch before September.
The Nintendo Switch 2 was unveiled earlier in January with a brief trailer that confirmed backwards compatibility features and the addition of a second USB-C port. However, many details, including other games and the function of the mysterious new Joy-Con button, remain undisclosed. The theory that the new button might serve as a mouse control has been gaining traction.
