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

Recent filings for the Nintendo Switch 2 have confirmed the inclusion of Near Field Communication (NFC) technology, suggesting that the beloved Amiibo figures will likely be compatible with Nintendo's next-gen console. According to The Verge, Federal Communication Commission (FCC) documents pinpoint the Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) feature in the right Joy-Con, mirroring the setup of the original Switch. This raises an intriguing question: will the Switch 2 support the existing Amiibo collection to unlock in-game content?

The FCC filings also reveal that the Switch 2 can be charged via either its bottom USB-C port or a new top port, a feature that aligns with expectations set during the console's official reveal. Additionally, the Switch 2 is set to support Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) networks with up to 80MHz of bandwidth, a step up from the Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) found in the original Switch. Notably, there's no mention of Wi-Fi 7 or Wi-Fi 6E in these documents, as highlighted by The Verge.

Regarding power, the Switch 2 remains rated for a maximum of 15V, but the filings also reference an AC adapter capable of up to 20V. This discrepancy leaves the actual charging speed somewhat ambiguous.

Last month, a Nintendo patent hinted that the Switch 2's Joy-Con controllers might be attachable upside down. This innovation suggests that the Switch 2 will employ gyro mechanics similar to those in smartphones without screen locks. Unlike the original Switch's Joy-Con attachment system, which used rails, the new controllers will use magnets, allowing for attachment on either side. This change could enable players to customize the placement of buttons and ports. If implemented, this flipping feature could introduce novel gameplay mechanics.

Nintendo Switch 2 - First Look

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If the Switch 2 adopts the patent's design, Nintendo is expected to provide a full explanation during the special Nintendo Direct event, scheduled for 6am Pacific / 9am Eastern / 2pm UK time on April 2.

The release of the Nintendo Switch 2 appears imminent, with speculation pointing to a launch window between June and September. This timeline is supported by ongoing hands-on events until June and statements from Greedfall 2 publisher Nacon, indicating a release before September.

The Switch 2 was unveiled in January with a trailer that confirmed backwards compatibility and the addition of a second USB-C port. However, many details, including the functionality of a mysterious new Joy-Con button and potential games, remain undisclosed. Speculation about the Joy-Con possibly functioning as a mouse has also gained traction.