New Patent Confirms Nintendo Switch 2 Joy-Con Features

The Nintendo Switch 2 is generating buzz, particularly with its innovative Joy-Con design, as hinted by recent patents filed by Nintendo. Although we're still awaiting official confirmation, reports suggest that the Switch 2's Joy-Cons will feature magnetic attachments and can function similarly to a computer mouse, a notion now supported by these patents.

According to the patent, "This game controller is 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 seamless attachment mechanism using magnets. The patent further explains that to detach the Joy-Cons, users must press two buttons located on the top surface of the protrusion. "The first button and the second button are provided in the longitudinal direction in the top surface of the protrusion," it states, adding that these buttons are magnetically attracted to the magnets in the recess.

Intriguingly, the patent also includes illustrations showcasing the Joy-Cons' potential use as a mouse. Players can hold the controller railside down, using the shoulder buttons as mouse buttons. Specifically, the R1 and R2 buttons would serve as the left and right mouse buttons, respectively, with potential scrolling capabilities via the joysticks.

Further illustrations demonstrate versatile usage, such as a dual mouse configuration or using one Joy-Con as a mouse while the other functions 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 subtly hinted at this feature by showing Joy-Cons gliding across a surface like a mouse.

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 through a Nintendo Switch 2 Direct. Stay tuned for all the official details then.