FCC filings for the Nintendo Switch 2 indicate that Amiibos are likely to continue.

      Nintendo

      If you were concerned that the Nintendo Switch 2 might not be compatible with your Amiibo collection, you can relax; recent filings with the FCC suggest it will support NFC, which likely means Amiibo will be included. The filings also reveal that the Switch 2 will feature Wi-Fi 6, an upgrade from the original Switch’s Wi-Fi 5.

      This is excellent news for fans, as it indicates the Switch 2 will support higher Internet speeds, matching the base PlayStation 5 and offering greater maximum speeds compared to the Xbox Series S or X. Regarding Amiibo, there’s little reason to incorporate NFC support otherwise. Nintendo’s Amiibo figures are visually appealing and enjoyable to collect, and they typically provide some in-game advantages. The filing indicates that the NFC reader — an RFID receiver — will be positioned in the right Joy-Con, just like on the first version of the Switch.

      In the announcement for the Switch 2, the documents have also disclosed that the console will have USB-C ports located at both the top and bottom, allowing it to charge from either end.

      One of the major drawbacks of the original Nintendo Switch was its sluggish Wi-Fi speeds. While it technically supported Wi-Fi 5, few users achieved maximum download rates. Although the Switch OLED offered a slight enhancement with an option for a wired connection, the Switch 2 is expected to deliver more significant speed improvements.

      Nintendo is hosting an official Direct on April 2 at 9 AM ET to provide a more detailed look at the Nintendo Switch 2. That event is likely to provide concrete information (possibly including a release date and pricing) rather than mere speculation. However, one thing is evident from the current leaks: the Switch 2 appears to be a substantial upgrade over the original console in every important aspect.

      Patrick Hearn writes about smart home technology, including Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, smart light bulbs, and more.

      Don’t expect these games to be backwards compatible with the Nintendo Switch 2

      In a brief video unveiled yesterday, Nintendo introduced its next console, the Nintendo Switch 2. While the clip showcased its design and offered a brief look at the upcoming Mario Kart game, it didn’t reveal much else. One important detail, however, is that the system will be compatible with Nintendo Switch games, both in digital and physical formats. There is a catch that has made fans anxious: Nintendo has indicated that some games will not be backwards compatible, though specific details remain unclear.

      The Nintendo Switch 2 could sell 15 million consoles in its first year, analysts predict

      Market analysts have high expectations for the upcoming Nintendo console, forecasting it could sell up to 15 million units in its inaugural year. The first official teaser for the Nintendo Switch 2 was released today, although a complete Nintendo Direct is scheduled for April. The company aims to surpass the sales figures of the original Switch, which has sold 147 million units since 2017, benefitting significantly from increased sales during the lockdown. This could prove challenging, but it is feasible, especially with an existing user base of at least 105 million, according to analyst George Jijiashvili. He emphasizes that the crucial factor for the Switch 2's success will be the transition phase. "However, the greatest challenge will be navigating this transition effectively — persuading users to upgrade to the Switch 2 while ensuring those who choose to remain with the original Switch continue to feel supported and engaged," he explained.

      What the Nintendo Switch 2 reveal didn’t disclose: specs, price, and more

      The speculation can finally cease. The Nintendo Switch 2 was formally revealed this morning, confirming weeks of rumors. The previous leaks turned out to be accurate, as the system's design and features align with what was shown at CES 2025. Case closed ... right?

      Not so fast. While we caught our first glimpse of the handheld today, concrete information about it remains limited. We did see its new Joy-cons, redesigned kickstand, mouse-like features, and more. There was even a quick peek at Mario Kart 9. However, Nintendo did not provide much in terms of definitive details, opting to save that information for a more extensive presentation on April 2. Here are just a few of the lingering unanswered questions.

      Specs