Images that allegedly showcase Nintendo’s upcoming next-gen Switch console have recently made waves online, first appearing on Reddit before being traced back to a Chinese social media platform. These images display a console with a larger 8-inch screen, magnetic Joy-Cons, and dual USB-C ports, one located at the top and the other at the bottom of the device.
Although these images haven’t been officially verified, a source briefed on Nintendo’s plans, though not having seen the final version of the “Switch 2,” told VGC that the device shown in these leaks closely aligns with the descriptions Nintendo has provided to its partners. VGC has reached out to Nintendo for a comment but has yet to receive an official response.
The design in the leaked images shows controllers that look similar to the current Joy-Cons but with some key updates, such as reworked SL/SR buttons and front-facing LEDs for player indication. This matches previous reports that suggested minor yet meaningful design changes for the new console. According to the leak, the Switch 2 is expected to feature 12GB of RAM, which is a significant increase over the original Switch’s 4GB. It will also reportedly include 256GB of internal storage—an eightfold jump from the current 32GB—and support for HDMI 2.1.
Interestingly, the design details seen in the images are consistent with earlier leaks and reports. Several publications, including VGC, had earlier predicted that the next-gen console would feature a larger screen. Additionally, a Nintendo patent hinted at a possible shift to magnetic attachments for the Joy-Cons, marking a departure from the slide-in mechanism used by the original Switch.
There have been some differing opinions on the display type, though. Two sources who spoke with VGC last year suggested that Nintendo might opt for an LCD screen for the new console rather than the OLED display found in the Switch OLED model. This choice would likely be a cost-saving measure, allowing for upgrades like higher storage and improved hardware while keeping the price down.
Adding to the growing anticipation, Chinese peripheral maker Mobapad previously claimed that the Switch 2 will support 1080p resolution in handheld mode, while the dock will enable 4K output for TV play, suggesting significant visual upgrades over the current model.
Despite the buzz surrounding these leaks, Nintendo has kept its cards close to its chest when it comes to any official details about the upcoming console, including features like backward compatibility. Industry insiders, however, believe that Nintendo is preparing to reveal the system within its current fiscal year, which ends on March 31, 2025. Rumors last month suggested that developers have been informed not to expect the new console before April 2025. Earlier this year, VGC reported that Nintendo had internally delayed the launch from its initial 2024 timeframe to early 2025.
Why the delay? Analysts have offered various theories. Some believe the extra time will allow Nintendo to strengthen its lineup of first-party titles at launch, while others suspect the delay is a precautionary measure to avoid supply chain disruptions that could impact the release.
However, David Gibson, a senior research analyst at MST Financial, recently pointed to Nintendo’s assembler, Hosiden, which might hint at an earlier release. Gibson noted that Hosiden is investing approximately ¥2 billion in production equipment and another ¥1 billion in automation, potentially gearing up for the new console. This financial activity has led Gibson to speculate that Nintendo could announce the Switch 2 in September 2024, with a possible launch in March 2025.
While no official word has come from Nintendo just yet, the recent leaks provide an intriguing look at what could be the next evolution of the beloved Switch, promising significant hardware upgrades and new features that have fans buzzing with excitement.
Subtly charming pop culture geek. Amateur analyst. Freelance tv buff. Coffee lover