Contemplating the potential appearance of the Nintendo Switch 2's design.
Contemplating the potential appearance of the Nintendo Switch 2's design.
We've got a fair idea about the Nintendo Switch 2's power and components, and now we've also got a clue about its appearance. A video showing a 3D-printed model reveals how Nintendo expanded its portable device with a larger screen and some additional buttons and ports.
SwitchUp, a YouTube channel, shared a video claiming they obtained a 3D-printed Switch 2 dummy allegedly created by iVoler to assist in case design. If this seems suspicious, SwitchUp explained that the prototype came from iVoler, who wanted to boost their visibility. Nintendo has managed to keep its console under wraps quite effectively, but to provide more accessories at launch, they would need to share console specifications with third-party case designers.
The supposed Switch 2 appears to be a larger version of the original Switch. This increase in size is partly due to the new 8-inch display, which has similar bezels to Nintendo's first handheld console. This size increase might make it more comfortable for adults to handle. The Switch 2 features more rounded edges but preserves the slim frame that made its predecessor so light. However, a new button has been added to the Switch 2 controller, absent in the JoyCons. SwitchUp speculated that this button could serve as an in-game screen capture tool.
The device still sports a headphone jack, power and volume button, and a kickstand at the back. The new addition is a USB-C port on the top. The bottom still appears to house a proprietary charging port, designed to connect to an official Nintendo dock. It would be interesting to see if this console could also be charged with any spare power adapter around the house. If it accepts power and peripherals, it might be compatible with other handheld dock systems.
An intriguing aspect of the iVoler case is that it contains slots for Switch cartridges. Nintendo revealed last month that the Switch 2 would be partially backward compatible. If the case is indeed designed for the Switch 2, it could be more evidence that Nintendo is sticking with physical media, while other console manufacturers are moving away from it. For instance, the PlayStation 5 Pro doesn't come with a disc drive.
Excitement for the Switch 2 is at an all-time high. Even Chinese accessory retailers are marketing cases and screen protectors for the unannounced Switch 2 sequel. The only thing we know about these products is Nintendo's silence, which is getting deafening.
While Nintendo officially acknowledged the console's existence and promised an announcement by the end of its fiscal year (which concludes in March), Spanish-language site Nintenduo claimed, based on unnamed developer sources, that the Switch 2 release has been delayed to June or July. However, this information hasn't been verified by Nintendo.
The tech community is buzzing with excitement about the potential features of the Nintendo Switch 2. With the alleged Switch 2 featuring a larger screen, additional buttons, and a USB-C port, it's clear that technology is playing a significant role in shaping the future of gaming devices.
As more and more third-party retailers start producing accessories for the unannounced Switch 2, it seems that the tech industry is already preparing for its launch, even if Nintendo's official announcement is still pending.