New Patent Reveals Nintendo Switch 2 Joy-Con Features

The Nintendo Switch 2 is generating buzz, particularly due to innovative changes to its Joy-Cons, as evidenced by recent patents filed by Nintendo. While we await official confirmation, leaks and reports suggest that the Switch 2's Joy-Cons will feature magnetic attachments and can function similarly to a computer mouse.

According to the patent, the Joy-Cons are designed to be "detachably mounted to a body device that has a recess, that comprises a first magnet and a second magnet at the bottom of the recess, and that can execute game processing." This indicates a shift to a magnetic system for attaching the Joy-Cons to the Switch 2. The patent also outlines a specific detachment mechanism, requiring the user to press two buttons located on the top surface of a protrusion on the Joy-Con. These buttons are magnetically attracted to corresponding magnets in the Switch 2's body, enhancing the secure yet easy-to-remove design.

Intriguingly, the patent includes illustrations demonstrating the Joy-Cons' use as a mouse. In this configuration, players can hold the Joy-Con railside down, using the R1 and R2 buttons as left and right mouse buttons, respectively. There's also a suggestion of a scrolling function possibly integrated with the joysticks. The illustrations further showcase versatile usage modes, including a dual-mouse setup or using one Joy-Con as a mouse and the other as a traditional game controller.

The magnetic attachment feature was among the earliest leaks about the Switch 2, while the mouse-like functionality surfaced later. Although not officially confirmed, a teaser released in January hinted at this feature, showing Joy-Cons gliding across a surface in a mouse-like manner.

For a comprehensive overview of what we know about the Nintendo Switch 2, check out our detailed breakdown. Mark your calendars for April 2, 2025, when Nintendo plans to unveil more official details during the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct.