Nintendo Switch 2 Design Hints at Surprising Communication Feature

Nintendo’s highly anticipated successor to the Switch might be taking a significant step forward in communication features. Sharp-eyed observers have identified what appears to be a microphone opening in the recent Switch 2 reveal trailer, suggesting built-in voice capabilities for the new gaming system.

The potential microphone opening was spotted during a detailed analysis of Nintendo’s January 16 announcement video. Located on the console’s top edge, just beside the cartridge slot, this small cavity bears a striking resemblance to microphone ports found in other gaming devices.

This design choice marks an interesting return to form for Nintendo. The company previously incorporated microphones into several of its popular systems, including the Wii U GamePad, 3DS, and NDS. However, these earlier implementations typically placed the microphone at the bottom of the device. The Switch 2’s apparent top placement represents a notable departure from this traditional design approach.

The potential inclusion of an integrated microphone aligns with earlier speculation about enhanced communication features. Recent datamining efforts uncovered references to a feature called “Campus,” reportedly designed to provide group and voice chat capabilities for Nintendo Switch Online subscribers.

While some might question why Nintendo didn’t integrate the microphone into the detachable Joy-Con controllers, this decision could be driven by practical considerations. Keeping the microphone in the main unit potentially helps maintain lower production costs for the Joy-Cons while still providing the desired functionality.

Gaming enthusiasts won’t have to wait long for official confirmation of these features. Nintendo has scheduled a Direct presentation for April 2, promising to showcase new details about the Switch 2. This event is expected to provide comprehensive information about the console’s capabilities, features, and upcoming game lineup.