"Nintendo Switch 2 Filings Hint at Amiibo Compatibility with NFC Support"

Recent filings for the Nintendo Switch 2 have unveiled that the next-generation console will support Near Field Communication (NFC), suggesting compatibility with Amiibo figures. As reported by The Verge, the Federal Communication Commission (FCC) documents indicate that the Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) feature, essential for Amiibo functionality, will be integrated into the right Joy-Con of the Switch 2, mirroring the setup of the original Switch. This raises an intriguing question: Will the Switch 2 be able to use existing Amiibo to unlock in-game content?

The FCC filings also shed light on the charging capabilities of the Switch 2. Users will have the convenience of charging the console through either the bottom USB-C port or a new top port, a feature many anticipated after the console's initial reveal. Additionally, the Switch 2 will support Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) networks with bandwidth up to 80MHz, a step up from the Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) of its predecessor. Notably, there is no mention of Wi-Fi 7 or Wi-Fi 6E support in the filings, as highlighted by The Verge.

Regarding power, while the Switch 2 maintains a maximum voltage rating of 15V, the filings reference an AC adapter capable of up to 20V. This leaves the actual charging speed of the console somewhat ambiguous.

A patent from Nintendo last month hinted at a novel feature for the Switch 2's Joy-Con controllers, suggesting they could be attached upside down. Unlike the original Switch, which used rails to secure Joy-Cons, the new design incorporates magnets. This allows for more flexible attachment options, potentially enabling players to customize the placement of buttons and ports. Such a feature could lead to innovative gameplay mechanics if included in the final product.

Nintendo Switch 2 - First Look

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If the Nintendo Switch 2 incorporates the features suggested by the patent, Nintendo is expected to provide a detailed explanation during 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 imminent, with speculation pointing towards a launch between June and September. This speculation is fueled by upcoming hands-on events scheduled until June and a statement from Greedfall 2 publisher Nacon, indicating the console's release before September.

The Nintendo Switch 2 was first teased in January with a brief trailer confirming backwards compatibility and the inclusion of a second USB-C port. However, many details, including information about additional games and the function of a mysterious new Joy-Con button, remain undisclosed. Speculation about the button's potential use as a mouse control has gained some traction among fans.