It turns out that the recent rumors swirling around about a Nintendo Switch Pro could be true. Nintendo's hybrid console combines couch and handheld gaming, but with some limitations in comparison to competitors. According to insiders, there is a new model of Nintendo Switch in development and dataminers may have just confirmed it.
Back in 2017, Nintendo released a console that took the industry by storm for its dual playstyles. To connect to a larger screen, the Nintendo Switch can be slotted in a basic dock with some extra functionality. Despite this, games on Switch typically run at a lower framerate and resolution than versions on PlayStation or Xbox consoles. Recent reports suggest a 2021 Switch Pro release as a way for Nintendo to boost the power of its flagship device.
Since there was a new 12.0.0 update for Nintendo Switch, dataminers were hard at work finding any secrets. According to dataminer OatmealDome, there is now definitive evidence that a new model of Nintendo Switch is coming. Within the patch, there are possible mentions to a codename, Aula, which is supposedly the label for the updated version. There is a line within the findings, "is_crda_fw_update_supported," which OatmealDome suggests is a sure sign. Based on the dataminer's post on Twitter, crda is a shorthand reference to a cradle for Aula, or in other words, a dock.
What makes this especially notable is how it is an update specifically for the console's dock. OatmealDome points out how the hardware is pretty simplistic overall. It only has technology for USB, HDMI, and flash memory compatibility. Since it has never received a big update before, the dataminer believes this could be another sign supporting a new version of the Switch. Plus, the internal setting, "4kdp_preferred_over_usb30," is clearly referencing 4K capabilities, something typically rumored in Nintendo Switch Pro reports.
With over four years since the original launch, it is not surprising that Nintendo would release an improved model. Both Sony and Microsoft also launched mid-generation consoles in PlayStation 4 Pro and Xbox One X. With new data being found supporting the claim, in addition to all the insider leaks, it seems like a Switch Pro is likely. With new games in the pipeline like Breath of the Wild 2, it is possible that a more powerful device is needed to run them.
At this point, there is no official confirmation from the gaming company about an improved Switch though. While the information OatmealDome provides exists, it could just be very early notes for a hardware revision way down the line. That said, with Nintendo showing up at E3 this year, there is a chance for players to see a Switch Pro reveal sooner than later.
The Nintendo Switch is available now.