On Nintendo’s specifications page for the Switch 2, they describe the CPU and GPU as a somewhat elusive “Custom processor made by NVIDIA.” Recently, at an insightful developer roundtable with some of the key figures behind the Switch 2, we got an intriguing peek into the hardware wonders the device boasts and the fresh opportunities it offers game developers.
Leading the discussion were Producer Kouichi Kawamoto, Technical Director Tetsuya Sasaki, and Director Takuhiro Dohta, who entertained the press with their insights (translated via Raymond Elliget). When probed about the specs of the new Switch, Sasaki remarked, “Nintendo doesn’t dwell much on the hardware specifics. Our focus remains on the value we provide to our audience.” Nonetheless, they did spill some beans.
We unearthed intriguing details regarding the technology Nintendo is harnessing and some hardware insights that didn’t make it onto the spec list. Here’s what we discovered:
### DLSS and Hardware Ray Tracing are Officially Onboard
Nintendo’s collaboration with Nvidia has paved the way for implementing DLSS technology. Dohta validated that they are indeed using DLSS upscaling, and developers will have access to this tool, as he disclosed when queried by Inverse’s Shannon Liao.
“When it comes to hardware,” Dohta elaborated, “it’s designed to support 4K output to televisions. Whether developers decide to use this as a native resolution or opt to upscale from a lower resolution remains their choice. It introduces a plethora of options for developers.”
Furthermore, on the subject of hardware ray tracing, Dohta confirmed the chip’s capability to support it, offering yet another creative tool for developers.
### Analyzing Battery Life and System Processing
According to Nintendo’s official specs, the Switch 2 sports a 5220 mAh battery that offers a runtime ranging from 2 to 6.5 hours per charge as a rough guideline. However, the creators sidestepped providing a more precise figure. Sasaki noted that the runtime heavily leans on your specific gameplay and environment.
Dohta chimed in, mentioning that features like GameChat add complexity to the system, causing the battery life to be less predictable compared to the original Switch, making a direct comparison tricky.
### Emulation Handles Compatibility for Original Switch Software
When questioned about backward compatibility for Switch games and GameCube classics, the developers confirmed these are emulated, akin to the Xbox approach.
“It’s a complex response,” Sasaki admitted, “but considering it’s not purely hardware-based emulation, you might categorize it as primarily software-driven.”
### Bluetooth Enhancements
With the Switch 2, the new Joy-Cons link up via Bluetooth 3.0. Addressing previous issues with connecting multiple Bluetooth devices to the original Switch, Sasaki assured that improvements have been made: “Yes, it has improved.”
He noted that the enhanced size of the system and the inclusion of larger antennas, along with the increased number of antennas, should notably boost connectivity.
### Choosing LCD Over OLED
The Switch 2 showcases a 7.9-inch LCD screen supporting HDR. While the premium variant of the original Switch featured an OLED screen, a member of the press suggested this might appear to be a step down.
Sasaki responded that significant advancements have occurred in LCD technology over the years. Kawamoto further elaborated that the OLED version of the original Switch didn’t support HDR, unlike the new LCD screen.
### Two USB Type-C Ports
CNET’s Scott Stein inquired about the functionality of the Switch 2’s upper USB-C port for external displays like Xreal glasses. Kawamoto clarified that video output is exclusive to the bottom port.
“As for supporting the glasses, it’s not an official Nintendo product, so it’s tough to provide a concrete answer,” Kawamoto said.
The upper USB-C port was demonstrated alongside the Switch 2’s new camera features and is capable of charging the device in tabletop mode.
