As teased by Nintendo, Nvidia has now shed light on the custom GPU that powers the Nintendo Switch 2. While the details provided were not as in-depth as tech enthusiasts might have hoped, the information shared is certainly exciting for gamers.
In a recent blog post, Nvidia confirmed reports from IGN and Nintendo that the new GPU supports AI upscaling through Deep Learning Super Sampling (DLSS) and ray tracing. DLSS is an AI-powered technology that uses machine learning to upscale lower-resolution images in real-time, thereby enhancing both performance and image quality in games. Nvidia described the Switch 2’s GPU as a “custom Nvidia processor featuring an Nvidia GPU with dedicated RT Cores and Tensor Cores for stunning visuals and AI-driven enhancements.”
Nvidia highlighted the extensive effort behind the Switch 2, stating, “With 1,000 engineer-years of effort across every element—from system and chip design to a custom GPU, APIs, and world-class development tools—the Nintendo Switch 2 brings major upgrades.” These upgrades include up to 4K gaming in TV mode and up to 120 FPS at 1080p in handheld mode. The console also supports HDR and AI upscaling, which sharpens visuals and smooths gameplay.
The new RT Cores enable real-time ray tracing, which delivers “lifelike lighting, reflections, and shadows for more immersive worlds.” Meanwhile, Tensor Cores power AI-driven features like DLSS, “boosting resolution for sharper details without sacrificing image quality.” Interestingly, Nvidia mentioned that Tensor Cores also enable AI-powered face tracking and background removal in video chat use cases, enhancing social gaming and streaming experiences.
During the Nintendo Direct, Nintendo introduced the C button, which facilitates new chat functionality using an external camera and the Switch 2's built-in microphone. The technology is smart enough to focus on the player’s voice while filtering out background noise.
Nvidia made a bold claim about the Switch 2, asserting, “With 10x the graphics performance of the Nintendo Switch, the Nintendo Switch 2 delivers smoother gameplay and sharper visuals.” While the specifics of how this performance was measured remain unclear, it's expected that experts like Digital Foundry will provide detailed analysis once the Switch 2 launches in June.
Nintendo Switch 2 System and Accessories Gallery
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Nvidia further stated that Tensor Cores “boost AI-powered graphics while keeping power consumption efficient,” and RT Cores “enhance in-game realism with dynamic lighting and natural reflections.” The Switch 2 also supports Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) via Nvidia G-SYNC in handheld mode, ensuring ultra-smooth, tear-free gameplay.
In a hardware-focused Q&A session in New York, attended by IGN, Nintendo representatives confirmed the use of DLSS in the Switch 2 but did not specify the version or whether it had been customized. Similarly, they confirmed the GPU's capability for ray tracing but remained vague on details. Tetsuya Sasaki, General Manager at Nintendo’s Technology Development Division, explained, “Nintendo doesn't share too much on the hardware spec. What we really like to focus on is the value that we can provide to our consumers. But I do believe that our partner Nvidia will be sharing some information.”
AnswerSee ResultsIn January, a patent filed in July 2023 and published earlier this year was discovered online. It described AI image upscaling technology designed to keep video game download sizes small enough for physical game cartridges while offering up to 4K textures.
For more information, explore everything announced at the Switch 2 Nintendo Direct, and check out what the experts have to say about the Switch 2 price and Mario Kart World’s $80 price tag.
