The Nintendo Switch 2 might look familiar at first glance, but a closer look reveals some significant innovations, particularly concerning its Joy-Cons. New patents filed by Nintendo strongly suggest a major redesign.
While Nintendo remains officially silent, numerous reports and leaks point towards magnetically attaching Joy-Cons, a feature now virtually confirmed by these patents. The patents describe a system where the Joy-Cons magnetically connect to the Switch 2 console, utilizing magnets embedded in the console's docking recess. Detaching requires pressing two buttons, each magnetically aligned with a corresponding magnet within the console.
The patents go further, detailing a surprising new functionality: Joy-Con mouse control. Illustrations show the Joy-Cons used like a computer mouse, held sideways, with the R1 and R2 shoulder buttons acting as left and right mouse clicks respectively. The joysticks may provide scrolling functionality. The patent suggests this could be used in various configurations, either with both Joy-Cons as separate mice or one as a mouse and the other as a standard controller.
The magnetic attachment mechanism was among the earliest Switch 2 leaks. The mouse functionality emerged later, though a January teaser subtly hinted at it by showing the Joy-Cons gliding across a surface.Nintendo Switch 2 Joy-Con patent includes illustrations for the mouse functionality. More images in the link https://t.co/13ZNQtOMqF pic.twitter.com/ey3ufRUWZE
— Wario64 (@Wario64) February 6, 2025
For a comprehensive overview of everything we know about the Nintendo Switch 2, check out our detailed breakdown. Mark your calendars: Nintendo plans a dedicated Nintendo Switch 2 Direct on April 2, 2025, promising official details.
