A newly published patent suggests the Switch 2 Joy-Cons will offer mouse functionality. This article delves into the details of this exciting new feature and provides the official date for the upcoming Nintendo Direct presentation.
The much-anticipated Switch 2 is set to introduce groundbreaking features to its Joy-Cons, including potential mouse support. A February 6th, 2025, World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) publication details a Nintendo patent outlining the Joy-Con's capabilities, emphasizing its mouse-like functionality.
This aligns with speculation sparked by the Switch 2 reveal trailer, which briefly depicted the controller being swiped across a surface, hinting at mouse-like control. The patent largely confirms these predictions, especially given Nintendo's previous silence on Switch 2 specifics.
The Switch 2 Joy-Cons will maintain the detachable design of their predecessors, but with the addition of mouse functionality. The patent describes the mouse operation sensor as detecting "reflected light from a detected surface, the light changing by moving over the detected surface in a state in which either the first side surface or the second side surface is placed on the detected surface."
A new charging dock will accommodate simultaneous charging of up to two Joy-Cons. A magnetic attachment, including a wrist strap, will securely connect the Joy-Cons to the console.
Furthermore, the patent introduces a new controller design: a standard controller split into two halves, each equipped with an optical sensor for mouse functionality. These halves can be combined using a separate attachment to form a traditional controller.
It's important to note that the patent's features may not entirely reflect the final Switch 2 product, as Nintendo hasn't officially commented on the Joy-Con's functionality or any related accessories.
Nintendo of America announced via Twitter (X) on February 5th, 2025, the official date for the upcoming Nintendo Direct, focusing on Switch 2 details. The presentation will air on April 2nd, 2025, at 6 AM PT/9 AM ET across all official Nintendo social media platforms.
While the Switch 2 trailer confirmed a 2025 release, a precise date remains unannounced. For further information, refer to our dedicated Switch 2 resource page.