"Nintendo Switch 2 to Support NFC, Amiibo Compatibility Hinted"

Recent filings for the Nintendo Switch 2 have unveiled support for Near Field Communication (NFC), hinting that Amiibo functionality will likely be available on the next-gen console. As reported by The Verge, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) documents confirm that the Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) feature is integrated into the right Joy-Con of the Switch 2, mirroring the design of the original Switch. This raises the question of whether existing Amiibo figures that unlock in-game content will be compatible with the Switch 2.

The FCC filings also reveal that the Switch 2 can be charged via its bottom USB-C port or a new top USB-C port, a feature that was anticipated following the console's official reveal. Additionally, the Switch 2 will support Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) networks with up to 80MHz of bandwidth, an upgrade from the Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) on the original Switch. Notably, there is no mention of support for Wi-Fi 7 or Wi-Fi 6E in these filings.

Regarding power, the Switch 2 is rated for a maximum of 15V, but the filings reference an AC adapter capable of up to 20V. This leaves the actual charging speed of the console uncertain.

A recent Nintendo patent has suggested that the Switch 2's Joy-Con controllers might be able to attach upside down. This innovation is facilitated by magnets, unlike the rails used in the original Switch. This design change could allow players to customize the placement of buttons and ports, potentially leading to new gameplay mechanics.

Nintendo Switch 2 - First Look

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If the Nintendo Switch 2 implements the patent's design, more details about this feature are expected to be shared at 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 to be on the horizon, with speculation pointing towards a launch window between June and September. This timeline is supported by upcoming hands-on events until June and statements from Greedfall 2 publisher Nacon, indicating the console's release before September.

The Nintendo Switch 2 was introduced earlier in January with a brief trailer confirming backwards compatibility features and the addition of a second USB-C port. However, many details remain undisclosed, including information on other games and the function of a mysterious new Joy-Con button, which has fueled speculation about a potential Joy-Con mouse feature.