Leading up to the expected launch of the Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo has submitted many patents. Although many of the technologies outlined in these filings do not come to fruition, some recent patents have seemingly influenced the design of the new joy-con controllers, as seen in the reveal video. The latest documents released on January 23rd showcase plans to enhance the detachable peripherals further. Eventually, these new joy-cons may be capable of anticipating user inputs based on finger movements and button presses.
Monitoring Gameplay Patterns
Upon examining the most recent Nintendo Switch patent, it seems that the software would keep tabs on a player’s actions. Over time, the Switch 2 could learn a user’s habits and improve the speed of the joy-con button responses. While this could raise privacy concerns, players might have the choice to turn off this tracking feature if they wish.
Competitive Edge in Gaming
Many Switch players turn to pro-style controllers for games that need more intricate controls. Nintendo’s new patent could help players gain an edge in fighting games with joy-cons. By predicting inputs, it might help users navigate combo sequences better. Though the Switch isn’t traditionally seen as the go-to console for esports, this development could be viewed as an unfair benefit by competitors. On the other hand, using the patent for smoother navigation in menus is less likely to spark debate.
Potential Release and Innovations
There’s a chance that the smarter joy-con controllers will be available at the time of the console’s release, or they might be introduced later through system updates. There’s a good basis for thinking this tech goes beyond just ideas. A previous leak about the Switch 2 suggested that the new controllers would connect magnetically to the console’s sides. In the reveal video for Switch 2, viewers can see a joy-con easily detaching rather than sliding off its tracks.
In another patent from 2023, Nintendo hinted that future joy-cons could integrate Hall effect mechanisms to prevent stick drift. However, Nintendo has yet to confirm if these controllers will feature this improvement. Nevertheless, if combined with the ability to predict inputs, the new Switch 2 joy-con might convince reluctant players to consider an upgrade.
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