Tech Analysts Claim Major Switch 2 Leak Is Genuine

The lingering questions about leaks often revolve around their origins and authenticity. The most recent significant leak in gaming pertains to the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2. According to reputable tech analysts, there’s a good chance these leaks are legitimate.

Richard Leadbetter, an editor at Digital Foundry, mentioned in a recent publication and during the company’s weekly video segment that the information gleaned from Famiboards—where enthusiasts track all possible Switch 2 updates—reveals that the images and renders made public last week appear to be accurate as of October 2023.

“The eight-inch LCD screen. The larger form factor. The new Joy-Cons that connect via magnetic rails. At this point, we can reasonably assume all this information is correct,” Leadbetter stated. He specifically pointed to Taiwanese shipping documents shared on Famiboards that align with the latest leaked details.

This leak comprises two elements worth dissecting. Firstly, a couple of images were shared which, as noted by Famiboards and the GamingLeaksAndRumors subreddit, are said to have been taken from a shell model obtained at considerable expense by an individual. This is the most trustworthy aspect of the leak since recreating a motherboard would be nearly impossible, as Leadbetter explained to IGN. Analyzing the motherboard leads Digital Foundry to conclude that it indeed supports components mentioned in other previous leaks, including 12 GB of RAM.

The second aspect involves CAD drawings, or renders, that illustrate the system’s external hardware, detailing its dimensions, the redesigned Joy-Cons attached through magnetic rails, and the inclusion of two USB-C ports. These sketches presumably originate from the individual who photographed the assembly model. However, this is the part of the leak that should be treated with caution, despite many details matching other sources.

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— Andy Robinson (@Andy_VGC) September 18, 2024

“It’s prudent to approach this leak with some skepticism since anyone could 3D print a fake case,” Leadbetter advised IGN.

Digital Foundry also referenced a video by Chinese YouTuber Xiao Ning Zi, who 3D printed a model of what the Switch 2 might look like based on the aforementioned drawings. While they cannot fully verify the accuracy of her video, it aligns with other specifications, including the larger 8-inch display. If indeed true, it highlights how much bulkier the Switch 2 will be compared to the original model—affectionately described as a “chonker” by the team.

This leak regarding the Nintendo Switch 2 was initially identified by Video Games Chronicle, which cited a source familiar with the company’s plans that also corroborated the leak’s validity. In addition to the previously mentioned hardware updates, reports suggest it will come with 256GB of storage and is likely to feature an 8nm T239 SoC.

As of now, Nintendo has remained tight-lipped regarding the Switch 2, merely confirming its existence, with potential announcements expected within this fiscal year. The name for the console has yet to be finalized as well.