The details about the successor to the Nintendo Switch are still shrouded in mystery, but it appears that the next iteration may struggle to deliver in 4K resolution.
According to sources, the custom Nvidia T239 chip expected to power the new Nintendo Switch does not include deep learning accelerator (DLA) capability, potentially impacting its DLSS upscaling capabilities. This means that without DLA, the Switch 2 might be limited to 1080p, or at best, 1440p for certain games.
These projections are based on comparable hardware and are not yet confirmed, but they cast doubt on the Switch 2’s capabilities, which were rumored to be on par with the Xbox Series S.
DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling) has been a prominent topic in rumors about the potential Switch 2 for over a year, with initial mentions of DLSS and the Tegra 239 graphics chip as possible features surfacing in the major NVIDIA hack in March 2022. Digital Foundry recently conducted an in-depth analysis of the rumored custom processor and its expected capabilities.
While Nintendo has refrained from commenting on the topic, president Shuntaro Furukawa recently refuted claims that the new hardware was showcased to partners. Speculation continues to swirl around the new platform, anticipated to be unveiled next year. In an NVC column earlier this year, we explored the potential worst-case scenarios for the Switch 2, including the chance that it may not be backwards-compatible.
We expect to receive more information in the new year, but in the meantime, take a look at our comprehensive guide to everything we know about the Switch 2.
Charlie Wacholz is a freelance writer at IGN.
