Newly unearthed Nintendo patents reveal intriguing magnetic Joy-Con attachments and surprising mouse functionality for the anticipated Nintendo Switch 2. While official confirmation remains pending, leaked patents strongly suggest significant changes to the controller design.
The patents describe magnetically attaching the Joy-Cons, a feature previously rumored. The text specifies, "This game controller is detachably mounted to a body device...comprising a first magnet and a second magnet...that can execute game processing." Two buttons, magnetically secured, are required for detachment, according to the patent's description.
More remarkably, the patents illustrate a novel mouse-like functionality. Holding the Joy-Con sideways, the R1 and R2 buttons function as left and right mouse clicks, with joystick manipulation potentially providing scrolling. The patent suggests both dual-mouse and hybrid configurations (one Joy-Con as a mouse, the other as a standard controller).
The magnetic attachment was an early leak, while the mouse feature emerged later. However, a January teaser subtly hinted at this functionality, showing Joy-Cons smoothly moving across a surface.
For a comprehensive overview of the Nintendo Switch 2, consult our detailed analysis. An official Nintendo Switch 2 Direct is scheduled for April 2nd, 2025, promising full details.
