As teased by Nintendo, Nvidia has now provided some insights into the custom GPU that powers the Nintendo Switch 2, though it didn't dive as deeply into the technical specifics as many enthusiasts had hoped. In a recent blog post, Nvidia confirmed what IGN reported earlier from Nintendo itself: the GPU supports AI upscaling through DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling) and ray tracing capabilities.
Nvidia's DLSS technology utilizes AI and machine learning to upscale lower-resolution images in real time, significantly enhancing both performance and visual quality in games. Nvidia described the Switch 2's GPU as a "custom Nvidia processor featuring an Nvidia GPU with dedicated RT Cores and Tensor Cores for stunning visuals and AI-driven enhancements." They highlighted the extensive effort behind the console, mentioning "1,000 engineer-years of effort across every element—from system and chip design to a custom GPU, APIs, and world-class development tools," resulting in major upgrades for the Nintendo Switch 2.
These upgrades include support for up to 4K gaming in TV mode and up to 120 FPS at 1080p in handheld mode. The console also supports HDR and uses AI upscaling to enhance visuals and smooth gameplay. The new RT Cores enable real-time ray tracing, which delivers "lifelike lighting, reflections, and shadows for more immersive worlds," according to Nvidia. Meanwhile, Tensor Cores power AI-driven features such as DLSS, which boosts resolution for sharper details without compromising image quality.
Nvidia also mentioned that Tensor Cores enable AI-powered face tracking and background removal in video chat scenarios, enhancing social gaming and streaming experiences. During the Nintendo Direct, Nintendo introduced the C button, which facilitates new chat functionalities using an external camera and the built-in microphone of the Switch 2. They emphasized the technology's ability to focus on the player's voice while filtering out background noise.
Nvidia made a bold claim, stating that the Nintendo Switch 2 offers "10x the graphics performance of the Nintendo Switch," promising smoother gameplay and sharper visuals. While Nvidia did not specify how this performance was measured, it's anticipated that experts like Digital Foundry will analyze these claims when the Switch 2 launches in June.
Nvidia further noted that Tensor Cores "boost AI-powered graphics while keeping power consumption efficient," and RT Cores "enhance in-game realism with dynamic lighting and natural reflections." Additionally, Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) via Nvidia G-SYNC in handheld mode ensures ultra-smooth, tear-free gameplay.
In a hardware-focused roundtable Q&A in New York, attended by IGN, Nintendo confirmed the use of DLSS in the Switch 2 but remained vague on specifics such as the version of DLSS or any customizations made for the console. Similarly, they confirmed ray tracing capabilities without going into detail. Tetsuya Sasaki, General Manager at Nintendo’s Technology Development Division, emphasized Nintendo's preference to focus on consumer value rather than hardware specifics, although he noted that Nvidia would share more information.
Earlier this year, a patent filed in July 2023 surfaced, describing AI image upscaling technology aimed at keeping game download sizes manageable for physical cartridges while supporting up to 4K textures.
For more information, explore everything announced at the Switch 2 Nintendo Direct and see what the experts have to say about the Switch 2 price and Mario Kart World’s $80 price tag.
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