New Nintendo Switch 2 Joy-Con Patents Reveal Magnetic Attachment and Mouse Functionality

While Nintendo remains tight-lipped about the Switch 2's official specs, recent patent filings shed light on significant Joy-Con upgrades. Reports suggesting magnetic attachment and mouse functionality are now largely confirmed by these patents.

Nintendo's patent describes a game controller with magnetic mounting to a console housing. The design incorporates two magnets within the console's docking recess and corresponding magnets within the Joy-Cons. Two buttons, positioned longitudinally on the Joy-Con's top surface, are required for detachment. The patent explicitly states these buttons are magnetically attracted to the magnets in the console.

Furthermore, the patent showcases illustrations of the Joy-Cons functioning as a computer mouse. Holding the controller upside down, the R1 and R2 buttons mimic left and right mouse clicks, with joystick movements potentially providing scrolling capabilities. Illustrations depict both dual-mouse and hybrid configurations (one Joy-Con as a mouse, the other as a standard controller).

The magnetic attachment mechanism was an early leak regarding the Switch 2. The mouse functionality, while later revealed, remains unconfirmed officially. However, a January teaser subtly hinted at this feature by showcasing the Joy-Cons smoothly gliding across a surface.

For comprehensive details on the Nintendo Switch 2, refer to our detailed overview. Mark your calendars for April 2nd, 2025, for the official Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, promising full disclosure of the console's features.