New leaks suggest what Nintendo’s next handheld console (tentatively known as the Switch 2) might look like, along with key changes it could bring over the original Switch. Interestingly, the most detailed insight comes from accessory maker Dbrand, which is already promoting a new case for the unannounced device, way ahead of its expected debut next year.
In a statement to publications including The Verge and Insider Gaming, Dbrand CEO Adam Ijaz claims that his company has precise dimensions of the upcoming device based on a 3D scan of the hardware. According to him, the Switch 2 will be larger than the current Switch OLED, measuring 270mm wide, 116mm tall, and 14mm thick. The console portion of the device will take up around 200mm of that width, and is expected to have an 8-inch screen.
The Joy-Cons appear to feature significant design changes. Ijaz suggests that they may attach magnetically to the console and include a new ejection mechanism with a button located near the top of the controllers. Notably, the right Joy-Con displays a mysterious “C” button beneath the Home button. It is unclear if this new button replaces or complements the original capture button, which is still present on the left controller in leaked mockups.
Meanwhile, leaks from Brazilian publication Universo Nintendo and YouTube channel SwitchUp further corroborate these claims. The former shared renders of the console which reportedly sourced from a now-deleted Facebook post, while the latter released a video featuring a mockup from another case manufacturer. These alleged depictions of the Switch 2, along with several leaks that were shared prior to this, align with Ijaz’s descriptions.
One noteworthy improvement spotted in all three leaks is the inclusion of a second USB-C port at the top of the console. This could allow users to charge the device while it is in tabletop mode, addressing a long-standing limitation of the current Switch’s bottom-mounted charging port. Also visible in the back is an extended kickstand, inherited from the Switch OLED model.
Dbrand aims to release its case accessory around late March to early April 2025, suggesting the Switch 2 may launch around the same time. However, Ijaz admits he is unsure of the exact release date and details like the display type (LCD or OLED) or Nintendo’s plans for a TV dock.
This is Furukawa. At today's Corporate Management Policy Briefing, we announced that Nintendo Switch software will also be playable on the successor to Nintendo Switch. Nintendo Switch Online will be available on the successor to Nintendo Switch as well. Further information about…
— 任天堂株式会社（企業広報・IR） (@NintendoCoLtd) November 6, 2024
Despite the lack of official information, Nintendo has confirmed two key details regarding its upcoming handheld console. In a post on X that was published early last month, the company stated that the Switch 2 will support Switch Online functionality as well as backwards compatibility with existing Switch games, which is good news for those looking to upgrade from the original.
(Source: Dbrand, via The Verge, Insider Gaming / Universo Nintendo)
