Nintendo Switch 2 Filings Reveal NFC Support, Suggesting Amiibo Will Work With It

Nintendo Switch 2 filings reveal Near Field Communication (NFC) support, paving the way for Amiibo functionality on the next-generation console. As reported by The Verge, Federal Communication Commission (FCC) filings confirm the Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) feature resides in the Switch 2's right Joy-Con, mirroring the original Switch's design. Crucially, this raises the question of compatibility with existing Amiibo and their in-game unlockables.

The filings also confirm dual USB-C charging—a bottom port and a new top port—fulfilling fan expectations following the console's official reveal. Furthermore, the Switch 2 will support Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) networks with up to 80MHz bandwidth, a significant upgrade from the original Switch's Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac). Notably, there's no mention of Wi-Fi 7 or Wi-Fi 6E.

While the maximum voltage remains at 15V, the filings reference a 20V AC adapter, leaving the actual charging speed undetermined.

A recent Nintendo patent hinted at the possibility of attaching the Switch 2's Joy-Cons upside down. This appears to leverage gyro mechanics similar to phone functionality without screen lock. Unlike the original Switch's rail-based locking mechanism, the new controllers utilize magnets, allowing attachment on either side.

While this change may not significantly alter the hardware, it offers players flexibility in button placement and port orientation. This potential for reversed attachment could also unlock interesting gameplay mechanics.

Nintendo Switch 2 - First Look

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Should the upside-down Joy-Con functionality from the patent materialize, Nintendo will likely provide further details during their dedicated Nintendo Direct event, scheduled for 6am Pacific / 9am Eastern / 2pm UK time on April 2nd.

A release window remains unconfirmed, but speculation points towards a June to September launch. This is based on hands-on events extending until June and Nacon, the publisher of Greedfall 2, stating a pre-September release.

The Nintendo Switch 2, initially unveiled in January with a brief trailer, confirmed backwards compatibility and the addition of a second USB-C port. Many details, including game lineup and the function of a mysterious new Joy-Con button, remain undisclosed, although the Joy-Con mouse theory has gained some traction.