"Nintendo Switch 2 Supports NFC, Amiibo Compatibility Hinted"

Recent filings with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) have shed light on exciting features of the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, including support for Near Field Communication (NFC). This revelation suggests that the beloved Amiibo figures will continue to enhance gameplay on the next-generation console. The NFC feature, crucial for Amiibo functionality, will be housed in the right Joy-Con, mirroring the design of the original Switch. This raises the question of whether existing Amiibo will unlock in-game content on the Switch 2, a detail eagerly awaited by fans.

The FCC documents also confirm that the Switch 2 can be charged using either its bottom USB-C port or a new top port, a feature fans anticipated following the console's initial reveal. Additionally, the Switch 2 will support 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 model. Notably, there's no mention of Wi-Fi 7 or Wi-Fi 6E support, as highlighted by The Verge.

Charging specifications show the Switch 2 is rated for a maximum of 15V, but an accompanying AC adapter can go up to 20V. This discrepancy leaves the actual charging speed a mystery, adding to the intrigue surrounding the console's performance enhancements.

Further intrigue comes from a Nintendo patent suggesting that the Switch 2’s Joy-Con controllers could be attached upside down. This innovative design, utilizing magnets instead of rails, could allow for customizable button placement and headphone ports. It also hints at new gameplay mechanics that could arise from this flexibility. The gyro mechanics of the Switch 2 are set to work similarly to those in smartphones, potentially enhancing gameplay without the need for a screen lock.

Nintendo Switch 2 - First Look

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If these features make it into the final product, Nintendo is expected to detail them at a special Nintendo Direct event scheduled for 6am Pacific / 9am Eastern / 2pm UK time on April 2. The anticipation builds as the Switch 2's release window is speculated to be between June and September, with hands-on events planned until June and Greedfall 2 publisher Nacon indicating a launch before September.

The Nintendo Switch 2 was unveiled in January with a teaser trailer confirming backwards compatibility and the addition of a second USB-C port. While many details remain undisclosed, such as the function of a mysterious new Joy-Con button and the full scope of its game library, speculation about a potential Joy-Con mouse feature has sparked interest among the gaming community.