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If you’ve been keeping an eye on news about the Nintendo Switch 2 lately, you’ve probably come across some leaks regarding new Joy-Con controllers and are curious about what an IR sensor is. These details originally surfaced on an unknown Chinese social media platform and quickly spread across the r/NintendoSwitch 2 subreddit. Images of the upgraded Joy-Con controllers have showcased a new magnetic mounting system, an additional button, and, most notably, enhanced IR sensors.
While the concept of these sensors isn’t entirely groundbreaking—it’s worth noting that the original Nintendo Switch includes an IR sensor in the right Joy-Con—this time, each Joy-Con will reportedly have its own sensor. This advancement may unlock a variety of innovative gameplay mechanics. Although the short reveal trailer for the Switch 2 hasn’t outright confirmed these features, scenes displaying the controllers being used sideways on a tabletop might suggest their presence.
We’ve compiled everything you need to know about the new Joy-Con IR sensors, including their potential uses and exact locations on the device. Keep in mind that the inclusion of these sensors has not been officially verified, and they don’t commonly appear in top PC game controllers. However, if you’d like to learn more, keep reading.
What Are IR Sensors?
An IR (infrared) sensor is a device designed to detect and measure infrared radiation in its surroundings. These days, IR sensors are mainly found in motion detectors and high-quality VR headsets. In the case of VR, they assist in measuring depth and your proximity to objects, preventing accidents like bumping into walls.
This system operates by emitting infrared light, which is invisible to the human eye. This light travels in a straight line until it hits an object, at which point it reflects back to the sensor. Since many infrared lights are constantly being emitted, the sensor can create a detailed picture of its surroundings. Any changes in the reflected light indicate movement, allowing the system to track objects effectively.
Nintendo has previously incorporated this technology into the original Switch. The right Joy-Con of the original model features an IR sensor called the “IR motion camera,” utilized in games like Ring Fit Adventure, Nintendo Labo, and Resident Evil Revelations. Each game uses the technology differently.
For instance, in Ring Fit Adventure, users can monitor their pulse by placing their thumb on the IR sensor. Meanwhile, in Resident Evil Revelations, players use the IR sensor to reload weapons. In the mini-game “Eating Contest” from 1-2-Switch, a launch title for the original Switch, it even detects chomping noises.
Where Are the Switch 2 IR Sensors?
Assuming the Joy-Con controllers for the Nintendo Switch 2 do come with IR sensors, they are likely situated on their inner side—the part that connects to the console when in handheld mode.
Evidence from the reveal trailer showing the controllers placed on their sides and gliding across a surface might suggest that the internal sensors can track their movement like a computer mouse, a concept that would be quite distinct from typical interactions with Nintendo consoles.
The new Joy-Con designs seem to feature pop-out buttons that integrate pairing and bumpers into their bodies, a nice upgrade from the original design. Alternatively, they may have an extension that provides extra thickness.
To explore more advanced controller technologies, check out the best PS5 controllers, the best Xbox Series X controllers, and the best Nintendo Switch controllers.
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