Nintendo’s Next Generation: Leaked Images and Upscaling Technology Sparks Excitement for Switch 2

A new year brings fresh leaks about the Switch 2. Even though Nintendo’s plans for its successor to the Switch remain officially under wraps, a patent from the company has emerged, outlining plans to utilize upscaling technology to fit video games with up to 4K textures on physical cartridges.

The patent outlines technology similar to Nvidia’s DLSS or PlayStation 5’s built-in PSSR for enhancing images using AI. An important aspect mentioned here is to reduce the size of games that would otherwise require large 4K-native resources. This helps keep download sizes manageable and also allows these games to fit onto comparatively sized physical media.

Nintendo’s patent was submitted in July 2023 but was only made public this week. As noted by industry analyst Laura Kate Dale, the patent indicates “a game with native 4K textures may require a 60GB download, whereas a 1080p version might only need 20GB (which would allow it to fit on a 32GB Switch cartridge, the current maximum size)”.

This information surfaces alongside a unique leak providing our best glimpse yet at what seems to be the internals of the Switch 2. The images align with what we know about the size and internal structure of the device from earlier leaks, including an earlier look at the Switch 2’s motherboard, and the suggestion that the console may include a second USB port on the back of the device.

Switch 2 motherboard
by u/MHN1994 in NintendoSwitch2

Nintendo has previously indicated it will introduce the Switch 2 before the conclusion of the current financial year, on March 31st. However, much about the console’s design can now be inferred—indications point to it being a significantly upgraded version of the existing Switch, featuring magnetic Joy-Con controllers and an enigmatic new “C” button on the right Joy-Con.

“Nintendo may not have ample time in January, so an announcement could occur early in the month.”