If you take a look at Nintendo’s official spec sheet for the Switch 2, the details about its CPU and GPU are somewhat cryptic, described simply as a “Custom processor made by NVIDIA.” But during a recent developer roundtable with some key figures behind the Switch 2, we gathered a bit more insight into what gamers and developers can anticipate from this new hardware.
At the roundtable, producer Kouichi Kawamoto, technical director Tetsuya Sasaki, and director Takuhiro Dohta opened up to press inquiries, with the help of interpreter Raymond Elliget, to shed some light on the upcoming console.
“Nintendo tends to keep hardware specifics under wraps,” Sasaki mentioned. “Our main focus is really on delivering value to our users.” Yet, they did share some intriguing tidbits that give us a glimpse into the future.
We delved into the tech foundations Nintendo is betting on and discovered some of the hardware details that didn’t make it to the official spec rundown. Here’s a closer look at what we uncovered:
### DLSS and Hardware Ray Tracing in the Mix
With Nintendo continuing its partnership with Nvidia, the Switch 2 gets access to Nvidia’s DLSS technology. Dohta confirmed during the session, in response to a question from Inverse’s Shannon Liao, that DLSS upscaling is indeed part of the package.
Explaining further, he mentioned, “The hardware allows for up to 4K output on TVs. It’s up to the developers whether they want native resolution or to opt for upscaling. It opens up diverse options for them.” As for hardware ray tracing, Dohta verified the chip’s capability, adding it as another choice for software developers to consider implementing.
### A Word on Battery Life and System Capabilities
Nintendo’s spec sheet hints at the Switch 2 boasting a 5220 mAh battery, estimated to last around 2 to 6.5 hours. The developers were cautious about providing a more definite range. Sasaki highlighted how various games and conditions affect battery longevity.
Dohta chimed in, emphasizing the more feature-rich system elements like GameChat, indicating an even broader variability compared to the original Switch—making direct battery life comparisons tricky.
### Going Backward: Emulating Original Switch Software
Asked about backward compatibility solutions for original Switch titles and GameCube classics, developers acknowledged that the games run on an emulation system, similar to Xbox’s backward compatibility approach.
“It’s a challenging aspect, but it’s not just about hardware emulation,” Sasaki pointed out. “It’s essentially software-driven.”
### Upgrades in Bluetooth Functionality
On the connectivity front, the new Joy-Cons link up to the Switch 2 via Bluetooth 3.0. Concerns about connecting multiple Bluetooth devices, like controllers or headsets, seem to have been addressed.
“Yes, it’s improved,” Sasaki confirmed, elaborating that larger system size and increased antennas should significantly enhance connections. He mentioned that these advancements and numerous adjustments will make a “big impact.”
### LCD Outshining OLED
The Switch 2 comes with a 7.9-inch LCD display supporting HDR, contrasting with the premium OLED screen found in previous versions. While some might view this as a downgrade, Sasaki explained that there have been considerable strides in LCD technology.
Kawamoto added that unlike the old OLED models, the new LCD supports HDR, marking a significant improvement.
### The Two USB Type-C Ports
There was some curiosity from CNET’s Scott Stein about whether the Switch 2’s top USB-C port could connect to external displays, like Xreal glasses. Kawamoto clarified that only the bottom port supports video output.
“So, regarding compatibility with such glasses, because they’re not official Nintendo products, it’s hard to definitively say,” Kawamoto remarked. The top port has been demonstrated with the new Nintendo Switch 2 camera and can also serve as a charging point when the system is in tabletop mode.
