Nintendo had previously teased the powerful hardware behind the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, and now Nvidia has officially discussed the custom GPU that will power this next-generation console. While the details provided may not satisfy the most eager tech enthusiasts, they offer a glimpse into the exciting capabilities of the Switch 2.
Nvidia confirmed that the GPU in the Switch 2 supports AI upscaling through Deep Learning Super Sampling (DLSS) and ray tracing, technologies that promise to elevate the gaming experience to new heights. DLSS uses AI and machine learning to upscale lower-resolution images in real-time, ensuring smoother gameplay and enhanced visuals. The GPU, described by Nvidia as a "custom Nvidia processor featuring an Nvidia GPU with dedicated RT Cores and Tensor Cores," aims to deliver stunning visuals and AI-driven enhancements.
Nvidia highlighted the immense effort invested in the Switch 2, boasting "1,000 engineer-years of effort across every element—from system and chip design to a custom GPU, APIs, and world-class development tools." This dedication has resulted in significant upgrades, including the ability to play games at up to 4K resolution in TV mode and up to 120 FPS at 1080p in handheld mode. The Switch 2 also supports HDR and utilizes AI upscaling to sharpen visuals and smooth gameplay.
The inclusion of RT Cores enables real-time ray tracing, which enhances the realism of in-game lighting, reflections, and shadows, creating more immersive gaming worlds. Meanwhile, Tensor Cores power AI-driven features like DLSS, boosting resolution for sharper details without compromising image quality. Interestingly, these cores also facilitate AI-powered face tracking and background removal during video chats, enhancing social gaming and streaming experiences.
Nintendo showcased the new C button during their Nintendo Direct, which is designed for the Switch 2's new chat functionality. This feature uses an external camera and the console's built-in microphone, with advanced technology that filters out background noise to focus on the player's voice.
Nvidia boldly claims that the Switch 2 offers "10x the graphics performance of the Nintendo Switch," promising smoother gameplay and sharper visuals. However, specifics on how this performance was measured remain undisclosed, leaving it to experts like Digital Foundry to analyze once the Switch 2 launches in June.
Nintendo Switch 2 System and Accessories Gallery
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Nvidia also emphasized the efficiency of the Tensor Cores in boosting AI-powered graphics while maintaining low power consumption, and the RT Cores in enhancing in-game realism with dynamic lighting and natural reflections. Additionally, the Switch 2 supports Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) via Nvidia G-SYNC in handheld mode, ensuring ultra-smooth, tear-free gameplay.
During a hardware-focused roundtable Q&A in New York, Nintendo representatives confirmed the use of DLSS in the Switch 2 but remained vague about the specific version or any customizations made for the console. Similarly, they acknowledged the GPU's capability for ray tracing without delving into specifics. Tetsuya Sasaki, General Manager at Nintendo’s Technology Development Division, emphasized Nintendo's focus on providing value to consumers rather than sharing detailed hardware specs, leaving it to Nvidia to provide more information.
AnswerSee ResultsIn January, a patent filed in July 2023 and published earlier this year surfaced, describing AI image upscaling technology that could help keep video game download sizes manageable for physical game cartridges while offering up to 4K textures.
For more information, explore everything announced at the Switch 2 Nintendo Direct, and learn what the experts have to say about the Switch 2 price and Mario Kart World’s $80 price tag.
