After weeks of anticipation, Nintendo has finally unveiled new details about the highly anticipated Switch 2 gaming console. It’s the company’s first new console in years since the release of the original Switch all the way back in 2017.
As one can guess, the Switch 2 is a massive overhaul compared to the original Switch. Not only is it improving the existing designs and features of the Switch, but it’s also bringing a special camera accessory that seems like a direct evolution of the Xbox Kinect.
Kinect reborn? Nintendo brings a camera add-on for Switch 2
When Switch 2 was revealed in January, Nintendo didn’t really give us much. One of the biggest mysteries was what the console’s C-button would do.
Now, Nintendo has finally confirmed its functionality; it brings up game chat with your friends. Players will now be able to talk to anyone they’re connected with using the built-in mic. However, that’s not all; players will now have the opportunity to talk to their friends with the brand-new Nintendo Switch 2 camera that will debut right alongside the console.
Although we don’t know the full specifications for this camera accessory, it’s supposed to connect with Switch 2 with the help of a USB-C port. With this, players can join their friends in webchat without having to use the Nintendo Switch Online app.
A number of games, such as the Mario Party Jamboree TV, will allow players to use the camera accessory and see their friends’ faces while playing games. There are also supposed to be a few minigames that use the accessory as well.
Nintendo’s groundbreaking camera accessory has instantly drawn comparisons to Microsoft’s Xbox Kinect. It was unfortunate to see the Xbox accessory getting axed, but let’s hope that’s not the case with the Nintendo version.
When is Nintendo Switch 2 coming out?
It’s confirmed by Nintendo that Switch 2 will be released on June 5th, 2025, priced starting at $449.55. The console will be available to preorder in North America and European markets from select retailers, and there’ll also be a separate bundle with the new Mario Kart World game priced at $499.99.
Nintendo has also shed some light on the details of the upcoming console’s hardware. Switch 2 will ship with a larger 7.9 inch 1080P screen, Joy-Cons that work like a mic and mouse, 120 fps, two separate USB inputs, and 3D audio. There’s also going to be 256 GB of internal storage and a dock that features a built-in fan to keep the console cool.
While Switch 2 is docked, it will also support 4k resolution. It’s also confirmed that the console will require a MicroSD Express Card for storage expansion. The console will have backward compatibility and allow players to transfer their data from the original Switch.
With that said, are you excited about the Nintendo Switch 2? Let us know in the comments below.
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