As teased by Nintendo, Nvidia has now provided some insights into the custom GPU that powers the Nintendo Switch 2, although it didn't delve as deeply into the technical specifics as enthusiasts might have hoped. In a recent blog post, Nvidia confirmed what IGN reported earlier today from Nintendo: the GPU in the Switch 2 supports AI upscaling through DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling) and ray tracing. DLSS is an innovative AI-powered technology that uses machine learning to upscale lower-resolution images in real-time, significantly enhancing both performance and visual quality in games.
Nvidia offered a bit more detail about the Switch 2's GPU, describing it as a "custom Nvidia processor featuring an Nvidia GPU with dedicated RT Cores and Tensor Cores for stunning visuals and AI-driven enhancements." The company emphasized the extensive effort behind the console, stating, "With 1,000 engineer-years of effort across every element—from system and chip design to a custom GPU, APIs, and world-class development tools—the Nintendo Switch 2 brings major upgrades."
These upgrades include the capability for up to 4K gaming in TV mode and up to 120 FPS at 1080p in handheld mode. The Switch 2 also supports HDR and utilizes AI upscaling to enhance visuals and ensure smoother gameplay. The inclusion of RT Cores enables real-time ray tracing, which Nvidia claims delivers "lifelike lighting, reflections, and shadows for more immersive worlds." Meanwhile, Tensor Cores power AI-driven features like DLSS, boosting resolution for sharper details without compromising image quality.
Nvidia also mentioned that Tensor Cores enable AI-powered face tracking and background removal for video chat functionalities, enhancing the social gaming and streaming experience. During the Nintendo Direct, Nintendo introduced the C button, which facilitates new chat functionalities using an external camera and the Switch 2's built-in microphone. The technology is designed to focus on the player's voice while filtering out background noise.
Nvidia made a bold claim about the Switch 2's performance, stating, "With 10x the graphics performance of the Nintendo Switch, the Nintendo Switch 2 delivers smoother gameplay and sharper visuals." However, they did not provide details on how this performance metric was calculated, leaving it to experts like Digital Foundry to analyze once the Switch 2 launches in June.
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Nvidia further highlighted that Tensor Cores "boost AI-powered graphics while keeping power consumption efficient," and RT Cores "enhance in-game realism with dynamic lighting and natural reflections." Additionally, Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) via Nvidia G-SYNC in handheld mode ensures "ultra-smooth, tear-free gameplay."
In a hardware-focused roundtable Q&A in New York, attended by IGN, Nintendo representatives confirmed the use of DLSS in the Switch 2 but remained vague on the specific version or any customizations. Similarly, they confirmed the GPU's capability for ray tracing but avoided detailed technical discussions. Tetsuya Sasaki, General Manager at Nintendo’s Technology Development Division and Senior Director at its Technology Development Department, explained, "Nintendo doesn't share too much on the hardware spec. What we really like to focus on is the value that we can provide to our consumers. But I do believe that our partner Nvidia will be sharing some information."
AnswerSee ResultsIn January, a patent was spotted online that was filed in July 2023 but published earlier this year. It described AI image upscaling technology designed to keep video game download sizes manageable for physical game cartridges while supporting up to 4K textures.
For more information, check out everything announced at the Switch 2 Nintendo Direct, and what the experts have to say about the Switch 2 price and Mario Kart World’s $80 price tag.
