Nintendo Switch 2: Wi-Fi 6 support, NFC and two USB-C ports confirmed

Nintendo is preparing to release the Switch 2, and new leaks reveal interesting details. According to FCC documents, the console will get WiFi 6, NFC support and two USB-C charging ports. It’s a noticeable upgrade over the first Switch, but still not the most cutting-edge solution on the market.

WiFi 6: faster, but no 6E

The main improvement is the move to WiFi 6, which will provide a more stable and faster internet connection compared to WiFi 5 in the original model. However, the console doesn’t support WiFi 6E, and FCC tests are only listed for the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands, without the faster 6GHz.

Although WiFi 7 is already available (and the PS5 Pro uses it), Nintendo has traditionally been slow to embrace the newest technologies. However, Switch 2 is now on par with the PS5 and ahead of Xbox Series X/S, which are still running on WiFi 5.

NFC and Amiibo support

The second major confirmation is the presence of an NFC chip located in the right Joy-Con. This means compatibility with Amiibo figures, allowing unlockable content in games. For fans of collectible figures, this is great news.

Two USB-C ports: top and bottom charging

The most unexpected thing is the presence of two USB-C ports. You can now charge the Switch 2 via both the bottom port and the new top port. This is the first official hint of improved ergonomics for the console: perhaps the new model will be more convenient for playing games in portable mode while charging.

When to expect Nintendo Switch 2?

The exact release date of Switch 2 is still unknown, but it’s expected to launch in 2025. The trailer showed off a possible new Mario Kart installment, but we won’t know full details until the Nintendo Direct in April.

The trailer also showed a possible new Mario Kart installment, but we won’t know the full details until the Nintendo Direct in April.