Recent Federal Communications Commission (FCC) filings have provided insight into Nintendo’s next-generation console, the Switch 2, confirming key hardware upgrades.
Highlights
While the company has yet to disclose full specifications, the documents indicate that the device will support Near Field Communication (NFC), Wi-Fi 6, and feature a second USB Type-C charging port.
These enhancements suggest improvements in connectivity, usability, and overall gaming experience as the console remains on track for its 2025 release.
| Feature | Switch 2 | Original Switch |
|---|---|---|
| Connectivity | Wi‑Fi 6 (faster speeds, lower latency) | Wi‑Fi 5 (standard performance) |
| NFC | Enhanced NFC integration for improved functionality | Basic NFC for Amiibo support |
| USB Ports | Dual USB‑C ports for flexible charging | Single USB‑C port |
| Display | Potential upgrades: improved resolution & refresh rate | Standard display performance |
NFC Integration for Amiibo Compatibility
The filings indicate that the right Joy-Con of the Switch 2 will include RFID technology, similar to the original Switch.
This ensures compatibility with Nintendo’s Amiibo figurines and other NFC-based functions, allowing for seamless interaction in supported games.
The filings also reveal internal model designations, listing the console as BEE-001, while the left and right Joy-Cons are labeled BEE-012 and BEE-014, respectively.
Wi-Fi 6 for Improved Connectivity
One of the notable upgrades is the adoption of Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) technology. This improvement provides faster internet speeds, lower latency, and better network stability, particularly in congested Wi-Fi environments.
The 80MHz bandwidth support marks a step up from the Wi-Fi 5 standard used in the original Switch.
These advancements could enhance online gaming performance and lead to faster digital game downloads, addressing a common limitation of the previous generation.
Dual USB-C Ports for Charging Flexibility
Another confirmed change is the addition of a second USB Type-C port, located at the top of the console.
The original Switch featured a single USB-C port at the bottom, requiring an external stand or workaround for charging while in tabletop mode. The second port allows users to charge the device while playing in different orientations, providing greater convenience and flexibility.
Potential Design Changes and Future Announcements
Beyond the details confirmed in the FCC filings, previous leaks and patents suggest additional hardware refinements.
One patent filed earlier this year points to a redesigned Joy-Con attachment mechanism, potentially replacing the sliding rail system with a magnetic snap-on design.
Other rumors hint at a more powerful dock and a larger screen, indicating a focus on both usability improvements and next-generation performance.
While Nintendo has yet to release full hardware specifications, further details may be revealed in an upcoming Nintendo Direct presentation on April 2.
The Switch 2 was officially announced on January 16 and remains scheduled for a 2025 launch. As anticipation builds, these FCC filings provide a clearer picture of the console’s evolving design and capabilities, setting the stage for one of Nintendo’s most significant hardware updates in years.
