It might seem that Nintendo is far outside the mainstream console market, but the numbers contradict that. The Switch is one of the best-selling consoles in history, and its successor looks to be at least as good. Interestingly, the idea was for it to have an AMD processor.
Nintendo Switch 2 with NVIDIA processor
The Nintendo Switch 2 is probably only months away from its premiere. This can be attested by the number of leaks about the console that have been appearing for several weeks, including renders of the console itself. The specification has also been confirmed for a long time. As in the case of the first Switch, NVIDIA is responsible for the processor, which has prepared a system based on the ARM architecture with a GPU offering modern image processing technologies such as DLSS. In addition, we are supposed to have up to 12 GB of RAM and 256 GB of UFS 3.1 memory for data. Interestingly, the new Switch is supposed to be not only more efficient but also more economical.
Nintendo wanted the new console to consume no more than 5W in portable mode at all costs. This is why AMD’s offer, which wanted to prepare a processor for the new console based on the x86 architecture, was supposedly rejected. AMD was supposed to fight hard for the third console in its portfolio (after Xbox and PlayStation), but tried to convince the Japanese to introduce higher energy limits. According to rumors, it was about at least 8W when working in portable mode. Nintendo, however, did not give in and chose the NVIDIA processor, even despite slightly lower efficiency. Thanks to this, the Switch 2 is to consume less energy than its predecessor, and with a battery capacity of about 20 Wh, offer longer operating time than the current version.
At the same time, in the docking station, the Switch 2 should still be able to spread its wings and offer much better graphics than the current generation. Unfortunately, you can’t count on performance even close to the Xbox Series S, some things can’t be surpassed. However, I have no doubt that technology such as DLSS will make up for some of the shortcomings in this area. It is also worth noting that Nintendo will have an advantage in terms of console production costs. The processor is to be manufactured in the proven 8 nm lithography in Samsung factories, so it will be relatively cheap to produce.
It must be said that Nintendo has a clear plan for its console and uses proven methods. It makes money not only on games, but also on the console itself, while offering a product that gives the impression of a premium product. Switch 2 is to achieve quality similar to Steam Deck, while being smaller, lighter and running longer on battery. However, rejecting AMD’s offer will make porting games to Switch problematic again and probably only selected titles will make it to this console, similarly to the current generation.
image source: Depositphotos
Source: antyweb.pl
