Exciting news for Nintendo enthusiasts: the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 has been confirmed to feature Near Field Communication (NFC) support, indicating that beloved Amiibo figures will likely be compatible with the next-generation console. As reported by The Verge, Federal Communication Commission (FCC) filings reveal that the Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) feature will be integrated into the right Joy-Con, just as it was in the original Switch. This raises an intriguing question: will the Switch 2 be able to unlock in-game content with existing Amiibo?
In addition to NFC, the FCC filings shed light on other enhancements. The Switch 2 can be charged via either its bottom USB-C port or a new top port, a convenience fans anticipated after the console’s official reveal. The new model will also support Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) networks with up to 80MHz of bandwidth, an upgrade from the Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) found in the original Switch. However, there is no mention of Wi-Fi 7 or Wi-Fi 6E, as noted by The Verge.
Power specifications indicate that the Switch 2 is rated for a maximum of 15V, but the filings reference an AC adapter capable of up to 20V, leaving the actual charging speed a mystery for now.
Last month, a Nintendo patent hinted that the Switch 2's Joy-Con controllers might be attachable upside down. This suggests that the new console could utilize gyro mechanics similar to those in smartphones, allowing for a more flexible attachment method using magnets instead of the original's rails. This innovative design could enable players to customize their controller setup, potentially influencing gameplay mechanics in interesting ways.
Nintendo Switch 2 - First Look
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If the patent's suggested functionality makes it into the final product, Nintendo will likely provide a full explanation at the special Nintendo Direct event scheduled for 6am Pacific / 9am Eastern / 2pm UK time on April 2. As for the release of the Nintendo Switch 2, while no official window has been confirmed, speculation points towards a launch between June and September. This timeline is supported by upcoming hands-on events until June and statements from Greedfall 2 publisher Nacon, suggesting the console will be available before September.
The Nintendo Switch 2 was unveiled earlier in January with a trailer that confirmed backwards compatibility and the addition of a second USB-C port. However, many details, such as the full game lineup and the purpose of a mysterious new Joy-Con button, remain undisclosed. The "Joy-Con mouse theory" has gained some traction, adding to the anticipation surrounding the console's innovative features.
