The gaming world is buzzing with anticipation for the arrival of the Nintendo Switch 2, and recent developments suggest that its release might be closer than we think.
Increased spending by Hosiden, a Japanese component manufacturer that supplies Nintendo, hints at the Switch 2’s entry into mass production. Hosiden, known for producing analog sticks for Switch Joy-Cons and even the Switch’s AC adapter, has significantly boosted its capital expenditures on production equipment for its amusement segment. Given that Nintendo is Hosiden’s primary customer in this segment, this investment strongly suggests preparations for the next generation Switch console.
Further evidence comes from Chinese electronics company Weltrend, which is reportedly readying power management integrated circuits (PMICs) for new models of Xbox, Switch, and PlayStation consoles. The Switch 2 is likely among these new models, alongside the digital-only Xbox Series X and the potential PlayStation 5 Pro.
Adding to the growing body of evidence, rumors point to a redesigned Joy-Con for the Switch 2, featuring integrated gyroscopes. This would echo the functionality of the Wii U gamepad, potentially bringing motion controls back to the forefront of the Switch experience. Interestingly, the current Switch Pro controller already has built-in gyroscope functionality, making this a natural progression.
Though Nintendo has yet to confirm any details, whispers from the supply chain paint a picture of the Switch 2’s potential specifications. The new console is expected to utilize a customized version of NVIDIA’s powerful T239 Orin-based SoC, likely tailored for a lower power profile to enable extended portable play.
With this powerful chip, the Switch 2 could support 4K upscaling, utilizing NVIDIA’s DLSS technology for enhanced visuals on UHD TVs. Nintendo has been exploring deep learning technologies, including DLSS, since 2019, making it a natural fit for the next generation console.
Rumors suggest a mid-2025 launch at the earliest, with a more likely release during the holiday season of 2025, perfectly timed for the Christmas rush. The Switch 2 is expected to retain the hybrid form factor, combining handheld and console capabilities, offering gamers the best of both worlds.
The Nintendo Switch 2 remains shrouded in mystery, but the pieces of the puzzle are slowly coming together. With production ramping up and rumors swirling, anticipation is building for the next chapter in the Switch saga. Could this be the console that pushes the boundaries of handheld gaming? Only time will tell, but the gaming world is watching with bated breath.
