Switch 2’s Joy-Cons work like a mouse, Nintendo patents reveal

Nintendo recently published patents on February 6th, revealing two new features for Switch 2 Joy-Cons. The Joy-Cons will be magnetically attached to the console and also contain previously rumored mouse functionality.

Nintendo’s patent ‟Input device and system” indicated that the new Joy-Cons can also function as a computer mouse. The controller contains a sensor that operates by reading surface movement, using the same approach as optical mouse technology.

The patent drawings depict a user holding the Joy-Con device as if it were a conventional computer mouse. The illustration shows the user resting their index finger on the ZR button for the left click and the middle finger on the R button for the right click. The thumb is positioned on the joystick for scrolling.

The patent shows this functionality in both left and right Joy-Cons, yet it remains uncertain whether users can work with both at once or if it is for the support of both left and right-handed users.

The patent does not officially declare that the technology exists primarily for Switch 2. However, it matches the reported design of the new console very closely. 

Moreover, the patent diagrams do not include the C button observed in the Switch 2 reveal announcement. The reason for this could be that the patent was filed in August 2023, which might have been before the C button was added.

Other patents elaborated on the magnetic technology for attaching and detaching the controllers from the consoles. 

Switch 2 Joy-Cons will also have a magnetic attachment system 

The second patent, ‟Game Controller,” reveals that the Switch 2 will use magnetic attachments for its controller connections instead of the slide-in system present in the original Switch model. People had figured out this change since the console’s trailer showed Joy-Cons that clamped onto the device rather than sliding.

According to the patent, the new magnetic connection between the console and controller has replaced the mechanical rail with built-in magnets. The Joy-Cons will have two buttons to activate the magnetic release for detachment from the central console. 

Another patent, ‟Attachment,” details how the internal electronic circuit enables the central console to produce magnetic forces that maintain solid controller attachment. 

Cryptopolitan Academy: How to Write a Web3 Resume That Lands Interviews - FREE Cheat Sheet