It has been three years ever since the Nintendo Switch wowed the video game industry with its hybrid functionality. Since then, Nintendo has released a refreshed version of the original console that sports a better battery life and the Nintendo Switch Lite, which is a slimmer and watered-down version of the console that dumps the "Switch" feature to make it an all-portable device.
Now, Nintendo still hasn't unveiled its plans for the Switch's successor. However, with Sony and Microsoft releasing its next-generation consoles next month, many are wondering what's next for the Switch? Despite the silent treatment from Nintendo on its plans for its next console, rumors have been suggesting that a Switch Pro is currently in the works. Now, here is a breakdown of every rumor and leak about the Nintendo Switch Pro.
A Strict Home Console with a Huge Spec Bump
The specs of the rumored Switch Pro have varied based on different reports. Some claim that the Switch Pro will be a pure home console, which defeats the purpose of the console itself, given that the Switch's unique value proposition is its ability to switch between a home console and a portable device. Of course, the Switch Lite is the complete opposite of this rumored home console-only Switch. So, it is worth remembering the Lite is marketed as the watered-down version of the Switch, and it wouldn't make sense for Nintendo to put a Pro label on a device that lacks the feature that makes the Switch switch.
However, this leak also claims that despite losing its hybrid functionality, the Switch Pro will sport a huge spec bump to compensate. The leaker claim that the Switch Pro will include a custom Nvidia Tegra Xavier processor, a 54GB SSD, 4K video support, and two USB-C ports. The Nintendo Switch as it stands currently packs an Nvidia Tegra X1 processor, a 6.2-inch screen, 720p display, and 32GB of storage. Assuming this rumor is true, it appears that the Switch Pro will feature a huge spec bump despite not having the switch feature that the console is known for. However, fans should take this rumor with a grain of salt given that the leak came from a now-deleted 4chan post and the person behind it didn't provide any other evidence to support their claims.
4K Resolution
Another strong leak that has surfaced about the Switch Pro is that the rumored console will feature 4K resolution. The leaker claims that they have spoken to third party developers anonymously, who confirmed that Nintendo has asked them to develop Switch games that support a 4K resolution. Of course, the 4K functionality also means that the console will have beefier specs, but the leaker did not specify just how massive of an upgrade it is. Currently, the Nintendo Switch supports a resolution of 720p undocked and 1080p in TV mode. Assuming that this leak is true, then the Switch Pro would definitely live up to its Pro label, but players should be aware that this could also jack up the price of the upcoming console.
Other Rumored Features
Several months ago, Nintendo patented a unique health-tracking device that resembles a Nintendo Switch. In the diagram submitted by Nintendo, the device is shown having its own dock, which may suggest that this could be a concept for a new console. According to the patent, the device will be able to track the user's sleep, monitor their mood through microphones and sensors, and change the odor of the room the user is in.
Interestingly enough, this device also appears to be designed to work with health-related games such as Ring Fit Adventure. At the moment, it is unclear whether this device is a separate one, a new controller, or if this is the Switch Pro that players have been waiting for. Still, companies file patents all the time and most don't even see the light of day, so fans shouldn't be much stock in this.
In the end, the Nintendo Switch Pro is still unconfirmed, and any claims about it are still just rumors and speculation. However, with Microsoft and Sony releasing its next-generation consoles next month, Nintendo shouldn't get too comfortable with the continuous success of the Switch, especially if it wants to remain competitive. Hopefully, the launch of the PS5 and Xbox Series X will force Nintendo to reveal its plans for the Switch, especially if it wants to retain its current share in the market.