"Nintendo Switch 2 Filings Confirm NFC, Hint at Amiibo Compatibility"

Recent filings for the Nintendo Switch 2 have sparked excitement among gaming enthusiasts, particularly with the confirmation of Near Field Communication (NFC) support. This feature suggests that the beloved Amiibo figures will likely be compatible with the next-generation console, just as they were with the original. The Federal Communication Commission (FCC) documents pinpoint the Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) feature in the Switch 2's right Joy-Con, mirroring its placement in the current model. This raises the intriguing question of whether the Switch 2 will support existing Amiibo that unlock in-game content, enhancing the gaming experience for fans.

The FCC filings also shed light on the Switch 2's charging capabilities, revealing options to charge the device via either the bottom or a new top USB-C port. This aligns with fan expectations set after the console's official reveal. Furthermore, the Switch 2 is set to upgrade to Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) networks, offering up to 80MHz of bandwidth, a step up from the original Switch's Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac). However, there's no mention of the more advanced Wi-Fi 7 or Wi-Fi 6E in these documents, as noted by The Verge.

Another detail from the filings is that the Switch 2 maintains a maximum rating of 15V, yet introduces an AC adapter capable of reaching up to 20V. This leaves the actual charging speed of the console somewhat of a mystery for now.

Innovative Joy-Con Design

Last month, a patent from Nintendo hinted at a novel feature for the Switch 2's Joy-Con controllers, suggesting they could be attached upside down. This innovation, powered by gyro mechanics similar to those in smartphones, would allow for a more versatile setup. Unlike the original Switch, where Joy-Cons locked into place with rails, the new design incorporates magnets. This could enable players to choose the positioning of buttons and ports, potentially leading to new gameplay mechanics that could redefine how games are played on the Switch 2.

Nintendo Switch 2 - First Look

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If the patent's suggested functionality makes it into the final product, Nintendo is expected to fully detail this feature during their special Nintendo Direct event, scheduled for 6am Pacific / 9am Eastern / 2pm UK time on April 2. The anticipation for the Switch 2's release is palpable, with rumors suggesting a launch window between June and September. This speculation is fueled by ongoing hands-on events up until June and statements from Greedfall 2 publisher Nacon, indicating a release before September.

The Nintendo Switch 2 was unveiled in January with a brief trailer that confirmed backwards compatibility features and the addition of a second USB-C port. While many details remain under wraps, such as the specifics on new games and the function of the mysterious new Joy-Con button, the Joy-Con mouse theory has garnered significant attention. As the gaming community eagerly awaits more information, the Switch 2 promises to bring exciting enhancements and innovations to the beloved Nintendo platform.