Recent filings with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 have revealed that the console will support Near Field Communication (NFC), suggesting that Amiibo figures will likely be compatible with the next-generation console. The NFC feature, which includes Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), is integrated into the right Joy-Con, mirroring the setup of the original Nintendo Switch. This leads to the question of whether the Switch 2 will support existing Amiibo that unlock in-game content.
In addition to NFC support, the FCC filings confirm that the Nintendo Switch 2 can be charged through either its bottom USB-C port or a new top port, a feature anticipated by fans following the console's official reveal. The new console will also support Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) networks with up to 80MHz of bandwidth, an upgrade from the Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) on the original Switch. However, there's no mention of Wi-Fi 7 or Wi-Fi 6E support in the filings, as noted by The Verge.
The power specifications for the Switch 2 remain at a maximum of 15V, but the filings reference an AC adapter capable of up to 20V, leaving the actual charging speed uncertain.
Last month, a patent filed by Nintendo hinted that the Joy-Con controllers for the Switch 2 might be attachable upside down. This suggests that the Switch 2 will utilize gyro mechanics similar to those in smartphones without a screen lock. Unlike the original Switch, which used rails to secure the Joy-Cons, the new controllers are expected to use magnets, allowing them to be attached on either side. This innovation may not significantly impact the hardware but could offer players the flexibility to position buttons and ports as they see fit. If implemented, this feature could also introduce novel gameplay mechanics.
Nintendo Switch 2 - First Look
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If the Nintendo Switch 2 incorporates the features suggested by the patent, Nintendo is likely to provide a full outline of these during their special Nintendo Direct event, scheduled for 6am Pacific / 9am Eastern / 2pm UK time on April 2.
While Nintendo has not confirmed a release window for the Switch 2, speculation points to a launch between June and September. This speculation is fueled by hands-on events scheduled until June and statements from Greedfall 2 publisher Nacon suggesting the console will be available before September.
The Nintendo Switch 2 was introduced in January with a trailer that confirmed backwards compatibility and the addition of a second USB-C port. However, many details, including information on other games and the function of a mysterious new button on the Joy-Con, were not disclosed. The idea of a Joy-Con functioning as a mouse has also gained traction among fans and analysts.
