Nintendo’s Latest Patent Bodes Well for Switch 2 Upscaling Technology

In a recent development, Nintendo has filed a new patent suggesting some exciting features for the anticipated Nintendo Switch 2. This patent reveals an advanced AI-based upscaling technology designed to enhance image quality for games played in handheld mode. More specifically, this feature will allow the system to upscale images from a resolution of 540p to 1080p while maintaining smoother frame rates, providing a better gaming experience on the go.

The Nintendo Switch 2, set to succeed the original Switch, has been the subject of much speculation and buzz. While it’s not officially out yet, details about its enhanced capabilities have already made their rounds among fans and industry insiders following a partial reveal back in January. It is rumored to feature larger screens and redesigned Joy-Con controllers, and thanks to the new patent, we now know it will be equipped with backward compatibility for most existing Switch titles, with some exceptions. Despite the arrival of its sequel, the original Nintendo Switch will continue to receive support with new titles like “Metroid Prime 4: Beyond” and “Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition” lined up for release.

Despite some earlier FCC filings confirming the wireless features of this next-gen console, this recent discovery underscores more technological advances by Nintendo. The information was first noticed on social media by Mike Odyssey, who shared Nintendo’s AI upscaling plans on Twitter. This type of technology is not unlike what we’ve seen from graphics giants Nvidia and AMD, such as through their DLSS and FSR technologies. Essentially, the device uses a neural network to transform lower-resolution images into sharp, high-resolution ones, playing with superior smoothness thanks to elevated frame rates.

Yet, while the patent outlines these new features, it withholds some critical details, such as how this upscaling might affect battery life or whether this capability extends to games played in docked mode. There’s also the question of which upcoming games will leverage this technology. This AI-based upscaling patent is merely one of Nintendo’s recent innovations, suggesting the Switch 2 could introduce proximity-based voice chat functionalities in certain games and applications.

The gaming community eagerly anticipates the official unveiling of the Nintendo Switch 2, where more will be revealed during the April 2 Nintendo Direct broadcast. Still, questions linger regarding the potential stock and supply of this new console once launched. Only time will tell how the Switch 2 stacks up against other gaming systems. For now, anticipation builds as April promises to shed light on its features, pricing, and launch dates.