"Nintendo Switch 2 Supports NFC, Likely Compatible with Amiibo"

Recent filings with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) have shed light on some exciting features of the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, including the confirmation of Near Field Communication (NFC) support. This means that fans can likely continue using their beloved Amiibo figures to unlock in-game content on the next-generation console. The NFC feature is integrated into the right Joy-Con, mirroring the setup of the original Switch. This raises the question: Will the Switch 2 be compatible with the existing Amiibo collection?

In addition to NFC, the FCC documents reveal that the Switch 2 can be charged via its bottom USB-C port or a new top USB-C port, a feature that aligns with what fans anticipated after the console's official unveiling. The Switch 2 also promises enhanced connectivity with support for Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) networks, offering up to 80MHz of bandwidth—a step up from the Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) on the original Switch. However, there's no mention of Wi-Fi 7 or Wi-Fi 6E in the filings.

Power-wise, while the Switch 2 remains rated for a maximum of 15V, the filings mention a potential 20V AC adapter, leaving the actual charging speed a mystery for now.

Last month, a Nintendo patent hinted at a unique feature for the Switch 2’s Joy-Con controllers: the ability to attach them upside down. This innovation suggests that the Switch 2 utilizes gyro mechanics similar to those found in smartphones, allowing for more flexible controller placement. Unlike the original Switch, which used rails to secure Joy-Cons, the new controllers will use magnets, enabling them to be attached on either side of the console. This change may not significantly impact the hardware, but it could enhance gameplay by allowing players to customize button placement and other features. If this feature makes it into the final product, it could introduce new and intriguing gameplay mechanics.

Nintendo Switch 2 - First Look

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If the Nintendo Switch 2 operates as the patent suggests, Nintendo is expected to provide a full demonstration at the special Nintendo Direct event, scheduled for 6am Pacific / 9am Eastern / 2pm UK time on April 2.

The Nintendo Switch 2 is rumored to launch sometime between June and September, driven by hints such as upcoming hands-on events until June and statements from Greedfall 2 publisher Nacon suggesting a release before September.

The Switch 2 was introduced in January with a brief trailer that confirmed backwards compatibility and a second USB-C port. While many details remain undisclosed, such as the full game lineup and the function of the mysterious new Joy-Con button, speculation about the button's purpose, including the Joy-Con mouse theory, has gained traction among the gaming community.