Is There a Possibility of an Upgraded Nintendo Switch?

The possibility of an upgraded Nintendo Switch is a topic that has sparked considerable interest and anticipation among both gaming enthusiasts and industry analysts. While Nintendo is known for its unpredictable approach, the evidence and rumors suggest that a hardware update might indeed be in the works.

Current Evidence and Speculations

A console hacker by the name of SciresM provided valuable insights into ongoing developments for a potential new Nintendo Switch model, known colloquially as the "Switch Pro". According to SciresM, Nintendo is indeed working on a new model with an upgraded display, though the exact specifications and release timeline remain speculative at this stage.

Key Points:

The new hardware is codenamed Aula, which uses a Mariko SoC. This SoC is believed to offer substantial improvements in cooling and battery life compared to the original Switch model. Aula supports hand-held mode, indicating that the new model will not be dock-specific. However, Nintendo has not yet confirmed whether the new model will support a dock. There are references in firmware and code that support a new display, suggesting that residential elements and peripheral support are already in place. An OLED screen for the handheld tablet is confirmed, potentially making it a standout feature of the new model.

Industry Analyst Predictions

Veteran analysts in the video game industry suggest that a hardware revision is highly likely for the Nintendo Switch. This prediction is bolstered by reports from Reset Era and other tech news outlets.

According to Bloomberg, Nintendo has been requesting developers to prepare their games for a 4K format, indicating potential improvements in display quality. Additionally, there have been numerous reports of increased production of the current Switch model by another 20%, which could be an indication that Nintendo is preparing for a major update or release.

Future Outlook and Rumors

Rumors about a Switch Pro have been circulating since as early as 2019, and while this year seems to hold the highest likelihood for an announcement, it is still largely speculative. The gaming community eagerly awaits any official confirmation from Nintendo.

Analysts predict that either a hardware revision or a new software update is the most probable outcome. Regardless of the exact form, it is clear that Nintendo's next move will have a significant impact on the gaming landscape.