"Nintendo Switch 2 Supports NFC, Compatible with Amiibo"

Exciting news for Nintendo fans: the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 will feature Near Field Communication (NFC) support, according to recent Federal Communication Commission (FCC) filings. This means that the beloved Amiibo figures, which unlock special in-game content, are likely to be compatible with the next-gen console. The NFC functionality will be integrated into the right Joy-Con, similar to the original Switch. Gamers are now eagerly awaiting confirmation on whether existing Amiibo figures will be supported on the Switch 2.

The FCC filings also shed light on other aspects of the Switch 2. The console can be charged via both its bottom and new top USB-C ports, a feature that was anticipated following the console's official reveal. In terms of connectivity, the Switch 2 will support Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) networks with up to 80MHz of bandwidth, a step up from the Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) on the original model. However, there's no mention of Wi-Fi 7 or Wi-Fi 6E in these filings. Additionally, while the Switch 2 is rated for a maximum of 15V, the filings suggest the use of an AC adapter that can handle up to 20V, leaving the actual charging speed a mystery for now.

In a fascinating twist, a recent Nintendo patent indicates that the Switch 2's Joy-Con controllers could be attached upside down thanks to the use of magnets instead of the traditional rails. This innovative design not only offers players more flexibility in terms of button placement and headphone port positioning but also opens up possibilities for new gameplay mechanics. The gyro mechanics in the Switch 2 are expected to function similarly to those in smartphones, without the need for a screen lock.

Nintendo Switch 2 - First Look

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If the patent's design makes it into the final product, Nintendo will likely provide a full rundown at their special Nintendo Direct event, scheduled for 6am Pacific / 9am Eastern / 2pm UK time on April 2. As for the release of the Nintendo Switch 2, while no official window has been confirmed, speculation points to a launch between June and September. This is based on the timing of hands-on events up until June and statements from Greedfall 2 publisher Nacon suggesting a release before September.

The Nintendo Switch 2 was unveiled earlier in January with a brief trailer that confirmed backwards compatibility features and the addition of a second USB-C port. However, many details remain under wraps, including information about other games and the function of the mysterious new Joy-Con button. The theory that this button might serve as a mouse control has gained some traction among fans.