Rumors surrounding Nintendo’s next console are picking up speed, though fresh insights are somewhat scarce. Yet, a notable revelation has surfaced thanks to Reddit user NextHandheld. This user claims to have not only seen but also handled what appears to be a “final release” version of the upcoming console and its dock, although it was turned off. The folks at The Verge have corroborated these claims, having viewed photos and gathered enough evidence to lend credibility to the information provided by NextHandheld.
One significant piece of information is the name of the new console: Nintendo Switch 2. This name has been widely adopted as a placeholder and it seems it might be sticking around. For those hoping for a “Super Switch,” this may be the end of that dream. According to The Verge, the console’s dock bears a logo reminiscent of the original Nintendo Switch, with a “2” tacked on.
NextHandheld also mentions that the Switch 2’s Joy-Con controllers will use Hall-effect joysticks. Unlike their predecessors, these joysticks use electromagnetic fields rather than physical contact, which could greatly enhance reliability and eliminate the notorious drift problem. While Hall-effect technology is common in third-party controllers, seeing it implemented in Nintendo’s official controllers could be a game-changer.
What’s particularly intriguing is the hint that the Switch 2 will pack more punch when docked. The leaker teased that asking whether the dock has a cooling fan is indeed “the right question,” and The Verge has noted evidence of vents on the dock. Apparently, the dock is rated to draw 60 watts of power compared to the 45 watts used by the console when it isn’t docked. This suggests the dock might boost the console’s graphics through upscaling hardware or by allowing the Switch 2 to operate in an overclocked mode. This aligns with whispers of a “Switch Pro” capable of delivering 4K resolution on a TV when docked—perhaps inching us closer to that high-end Nintendo gaming experience.
The Verge also reported spotting a U-shaped kickstand on the console—a sturdier choice than the original’s single slim kickstand. Support for this claim comes indirectly through some blurry yet seemingly plausible pictures posted by Reddit user Future31, showcasing a similar-looking, slightly refined console in dark grey.
As for the Joy-Con attachment, NextHandheld confirmed earlier rumors that the Switch 2’s controllers will connect magnetically rather than via a traditional slide rail. The Verge claims to have seen visual proof of this adjustment.
It seems we might not have to wait much longer for official word on these developments. NextHandheld speculates that Nintendo could potentially announce the Switch 2 as early as January.
