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

Recent filings with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for the Nintendo Switch 2 have confirmed that the next-generation console will include Near Field Communication (NFC) support, suggesting that Amiibo figures will likely be compatible with the new system. These documents reveal that the NFC feature, which facilitates Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), will be integrated into the right Joy-Con, mirroring the setup of the original Nintendo Switch. This raises the intriguing question of whether the Switch 2 will support existing Amiibo figures that unlock in-game content, enhancing the gaming experience for players who have already invested in these collectibles.

In addition to NFC support, the FCC filings also shed light on the Switch 2's charging capabilities. The console will feature a versatile charging system, allowing users to power up the device through either its bottom USB-C port or a newly added top port. This dual-port functionality aligns with expectations set following the console's official reveal. Furthermore, the Switch 2 will upgrade its connectivity with support for Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) networks, boasting up to 80MHz of bandwidth, a significant step up from the Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) supported by its predecessor. Notably, there is no mention of Wi-Fi 7 or Wi-Fi 6E in the current filings, as highlighted by The Verge.

The power specifications for the Switch 2 also indicate a maximum rating of 15V, consistent with the original model. However, the filings mention an AC adapter capable of reaching up to 20V, which leaves the actual charging speed somewhat ambiguous and a topic for further exploration.

A patent filed by Nintendo hints at an innovative feature for the Switch 2's Joy-Con controllers: the ability to attach them upside down. This design change, utilizing magnets instead of rails, could allow players to customize the placement of buttons and the headphone port. Such flexibility might not only enhance the console's ergonomics but also inspire new gameplay mechanics, adding a fresh layer of interaction to the gaming experience.

Nintendo Switch 2 - First Look

If the Nintendo Switch 2 incorporates the features suggested by the patent, Nintendo is expected to provide a comprehensive overview at a special Nintendo Direct event scheduled for 6am Pacific / 9am Eastern / 2pm UK time on April 2.

While an official release date for the Nintendo Switch 2 remains unconfirmed, speculation points to a window between June and September. This speculation is fueled by hands-on events scheduled up until June and statements from Greedfall 2 publisher Nacon, indicating that the console will be available before September.

The Switch 2 was unveiled in January with a trailer that confirmed backwards compatibility features and the addition of a second USB-C port. However, many details, including information about other games and the function of a mysterious new Joy-Con button, remain undisclosed. The idea of a Joy-Con functioning as a mouse has gained some traction, adding to the anticipation and speculation surrounding the console's innovative features.