A recently published patent reveals exciting new features for the Switch 2 Joy-Cons, including rumored mouse functionality. Let's delve into the details and the upcoming Nintendo Direct.
Switch 2 Joy-Cons: Mouse Support and More
The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) published a Nintendo patent on February 6, 2025, detailing innovative Joy-Con features for the Switch 2, most notably, mouse-like capabilities. This patent seemingly confirms speculation ignited by the Switch 2 reveal trailer, which briefly showed a Joy-Con being swiped across a surface.
The patent describes a sensor that detects reflected light changes as the Joy-Con moves across a surface, enabling mouse functionality. The Joy-Cons retain their detachable design, familiar from the original Switch. A new charging dock allows simultaneous charging of up to two Joy-Cons. A magnetic attachment, complete with a wrist strap, securely connects the Joy-Cons to the console.
The patent also unveils 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 crucial to remember that these patented features might not all make it into the final Switch 2 product. Nintendo has yet to officially confirm any details about the Joy-Cons or related accessories.
Nintendo Direct: April 2nd, 2025
Nintendo of America announced via Twitter (X) on February 5, 2025, that a Nintendo Direct dedicated to the Switch 2 will air on April 2nd, 2025, at 6 AM PT/9 AM ET across official Nintendo social media platforms. While the Switch 2's 2025 release is confirmed, a precise release date remains unannounced. Stay tuned to our Switch 2 page for further updates.
