The Nintendo Switch 2 is generating buzz, and while it may look familiar at first glance, the real innovation seems to be centered around its Joy-Cons. Although Nintendo has yet to officially confirm these details, recent reports and newly filed patents suggest significant changes, particularly in how the Joy-Cons attach and function.
According to the latest reports, the Joy-Cons for the Nintendo Switch 2 will attach magnetically to the console. This feature is now almost confirmed due to a series of patents filed by Nintendo. The patent describes, "This game controller is detachably mounted to a body device that has a recess, that comprises a first magnet and a second magnet at the bottom of the recess, and that can execute game processing." This indicates a seamless and secure attachment method.
The patent further elaborates on the detachment process, stating that two buttons on the top surface of the Joy-Con's protrusion must be pressed to release it from the Switch 2. "The first button and the second button are provided in the longitudinal direction in the top surface of the protrusion," it explains. "The first button and the second button are to be pressed by a user. The first button is attracted to the first magnet by a magnetic force. The second button is attracted to the second magnet by a magnetic force."
Perhaps the most intriguing aspect of these new Joy-Cons is their potential to function like a computer mouse. The patent includes illustrations showing the Joy-Con being used in a mouse-like manner, with the player holding it railside down and using the shoulder buttons as mouse buttons. Specifically, the R1 and R2 buttons would act as the left and right mouse buttons, respectively, and there might even be a scrolling function integrated into the joysticks.
Further illustrations demonstrate the versatility of this mouse-like feature, allowing for dual mouse configurations or using one Joy-Con as a mouse while the other functions as a standard game controller. This functionality was hinted at in a teaser released earlier in January, where the Joy-Cons were shown gliding across a surface, subtly nodding to this innovative feature.
The magnetic attachment of the Joy-Cons was one of the earliest leaks about the Nintendo Switch 2, while the mouse-like function surfaced later and has yet to be officially confirmed. However, the evidence from the patents and teasers strongly suggests these features will be part of the new console.
For a comprehensive overview of everything we know about the Nintendo Switch 2, check out our detailed breakdown. Mark your calendars for April 2, 2025, when Nintendo plans to hold a Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, where all the official details will be revealed. Stay tuned for more updates!
