Reports suggest Nintendo may announce its next console, unofficially called the Switch 2, as soon as Thursday, January 16. This information comes from leakers like NatetheHate and VGC, who indicate the announcement will focus almost entirely on the hardware itself. Nate has stated that while there may be a glimpse of a game running during the presentation, software will not be the primary focus. A separate event to showcase the console’s software is expected later, likely in late February or early March.
Nintendo is known for releasing information about its hardware relatively close to its launch. For example, the original Switch was introduced in October 2016, just five months before its release in March 2017. Based on this pattern, a January 2025 announcement could point to a launch in June or July. Nintendo’s recent success with the Switch, which has sold over 146 million units, suggests the company doesn’t need to rely on the traditional holiday sales window to drive sales.
Leaked details indicate the new console will have a design similar to the current Switch, a departure from Nintendo’s usual practice of creating distinctly different consoles for each generation. The decision to stick with a familiar form factor may be influenced by the immense popularity of the Switch. In terms of performance, the console is expected to be significantly more powerful, reportedly reaching base PS4 levels in handheld mode and PS4 Pro levels when docked.
A key question remains regarding the name of the new console. Nintendo must ensure that the name clearly communicates it as a next-generation device, avoiding confusion similar to what happened with the Wii U. While some speculate about a simple “Switch 2” designation, Nintendo typically avoids numerical naming conventions, leaving fans to wonder what creative branding they might choose.
If these leaks are accurate, an official announcement from Nintendo about the January 16 event should be expected soon. However, if no confirmation arrives, it’s possible the timeline could shift. Regardless, the growing excitement for Nintendo’s next console makes it worth noting the date as anticipation builds for this major step forward.