On Nintendo’s specifications page for the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, the details about its CPU and GPU are summed up rather vaguely: it’s described as a "Custom processor made by NVIDIA." However, during a developer roundtable, some of the brains behind the Switch 2 gave us more insight into what gamers and developers alike can anticipate from this new hardware.
At this meeting, Producer Kouichi Kawamoto, Technical Director Tetsuya Sasaki, and Director Takuhiro Dohta fielded questions with the help of interpreter Raymond Elliget. When asked about the new system, Sasaki said, "Nintendo tends not to emphasize hardware specs too much. We prefer to focus on the value we bring to our consumers." Despite this, they did share some intriguing details. Here’s what we know now:
Confirmed: DLSS and Hardware Ray Tracing
Sticking with Nvidia, Nintendo ensures access to DLSS technologies. Responding to a query from Inverse’s Shannon Liao, Dohta confirmed the use of DLSS upscaling and shared its availability for developers. "The hardware supports output to a TV up to 4K," he explained. "Whether developers choose native resolution or opt for upscaling is entirely up to them. This flexibility is invaluable for developers."
Concerning ray tracing, Dohta verified that the new chip is indeed capable of handling it, offering yet another powerful tool for developers.
Battery Life and System Processing Details
The official Nintendo specifications suggest that the Switch 2’s 5220 mAh battery will last anywhere from 2 to 6.5 hours per charge, but that’s a ballpark figure. Sasaki emphasized that actual battery life depends on the game and usage conditions. Dohta added that with complex features like GameChat, the new system’s battery behavior is even more variable compared to the original Switch, making direct comparisons to its predecessor challenging.
Emulation for Original Switch Software
Regarding backwards compatibility with Switch games and GameCube classics, developers revealed these games will indeed be emulated—a method similar to Xbox’s approach. Sasaki elaborated, saying, "While it’s not just about hardware-based emulation, you can generally think of it as software-driven."
Enhancements in Bluetooth Connectivity
Connecting the new Joy-Cons to the Switch 2 takes place via Bluetooth 3.0. Addressing past issues with connecting multiple devices, including controllers and headsets, Sasaki assured improvements have been made. He noted the system’s increased size and more robust antennas will significantly enhance connections. The number of antennas has also grown, with numerous other tweaks.
Choosing LCD over OLED
The Switch 2 is equipped with a 7.9-inch LCD display that supports HDR. Though the premium version of the original Switch featured an OLED screen, which some might see as a step back, Sasaki said advancements in LCD technology have been significant. Kawamoto added that the OLED model of the original Switch lacked HDR support, which the new LCD screen includes.
USB Type-C Ports: Functions and Uses
Scott Stein from CNET inquired whether the top USB-C port on the Switch 2 could support external displays like Xreal glasses. Kawamoto clarified that only the bottom port is video out capable and mentioned, "Considering we’re talking about unofficial products, it’s hard to provide a definite answer." However, the top port has been demonstrated with the new Nintendo Switch 2 camera and can charge the system in tabletop mode.
