Nintendo Switch 2 Patent Hints at 4K Game Upscaling

While the Nintendo Switch has certainly found success in the gaming market, it hasn’t escaped criticism. The graphical capabilities of this hybrid handheld device lag behind those of the Xbox and PlayStation. However, a recent patent hints that the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 may address this shortcoming. This patent reveals a system that can upscale resolutions to as high as 4K, even without supporting native 4K textures.

This technology resembles existing solutions like Nvidia’s Deep Learning Super Sampling (DLSS) and AMD’s FidelityFX Super Resolution (FSR). In essence, Nintendo’s patent could allow for smaller game files while still delivering stunning visuals and performance. For instance, a game optimized for 1080p might take up 25GB, whereas a 4K version could balloon to 75GB. Since the Nintendo Switch cartridge is limited to 32GB, true 4K gaming seems impossible—unless it uses an upscaling technique, as pointed out by gaming analyst Laura Kate Dale.

Backward compatibility with existing titles is almost a certainty for the Nintendo Switch 2, which would help preserve the library of current cartridges. As next-gen games continue to expand in size and complexity, a technological solution to the storage limitations of cartridges is becoming increasingly crucial.

The patent documentation shows that it was filed in 2023, but it has only just become publicly available. With Nintendo setting a self-imposed deadline of March 31, 2025, the company is under pressure to officially announce the next iteration of their console. Recent leaks and rumors suggest that an announcement may happen sooner rather than later.

Nintendo has a history of being protective over its intellectual property and tends to keep tight control over its narrative—consider the case of Palworld. These recent leaks may force the company to reveal the Switch 2 ahead of its planned schedule. This would undoubtedly delight fans but could complicate matters for Nintendo.

As of now, concrete details regarding the new console remain scarce, and Nintendo is unlikely to provide any until they’re ready for their official reveal. It’s wise to regard current rumors with a healthy dose of skepticism, as they may not yet reflect the reality of the upcoming console.