Summary
A patent filed byNintendosuggests the developer may be looking into using magnetic attachments with the release of its next home console. While not much is yet known about the rumored “Switch 2” through official announcements, leaks have revealed several details aboutNintendo’s rumored next console. The device is believed to feature several carryovers from the Switch including a portable mode and cartridge-based games, as well as improved specs and backwards compatibility. Now, a recent patent could be teasing another new feature coming to the console.
Rumors about the nextNintendoconsole come as the Switch serves as the oldest member of its console generation. The Switch’s launch in 2017 came three years before the launch of the PS5 and Xbox Series X/S consoles, releasing amidst the prime years of the PS4 and Xbox One. Many have felt Nintendo will similarly look to launch its next-gen console early, with rumors suggesting the “Switch 2” could debut sometime during 2024. Now, a patent filed by Nintendo could potentially reveal new magnetic attachments for its next console.
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A recently published patent, officially filed in December, claims a new magnetic attachment that the developer may be using for its upcoming console. The device looks to be a simple clip with a magnet attached to the rear of the clip, with the description for the patent referring specifically to holding a “game console.” The images included with the patent do not make the usage of the attachment clear, though references to a console suggestNintendo’s next console releasemay use the magnetic clips.
A unique attachment for the Switch 2 would serve as the newest example of Nintendo pushing innovation with its game consoles. Since the Switch made waves with its combination of handheld and home console gaming, Nintendo has continued to experiment with new peripherals on Switch.Nintendo Labo’s VR expansionserved as one of the developer’s first forays into virtual reality, though the cardboard peripheral did not perform well. The developer also continues to push motion controls with new games likeNintendo Switch SportsandEverybody 1-2-Switch.
Nintendo’s newest patent comes amidst a 2023 that has been full of high-profile titles from the iconic Japanese developer. The first half of the year saw the long-awaited launch ofThe Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdomto massive success after several years in development. Nintendo would also announce several newMariogames coming inlate 2023 withSuper Mario Bros. Wonderand a remake ofSuper Mario RPGamong the highlights. Nintendo’s patented magnetic attachments could see the developer continuing to push the boundaries of gaming with its next console.
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