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

While Nintendo remains tight-lipped about the Switch 2's official specifications, recently surfaced patents strongly suggest significant changes to the Joy-Cons. Reports of magnetic attachment and mouse functionality are now virtually confirmed by these filings.

The patents describe a game controller with magnetic attachment to the Switch 2 console. Specifically, the document states: "This game controller is detachably mounted to a body device that has a recess, that comprises a first magnet and a second magnet at the bottom of the recess, and that can execute game processing." Detaching the Joy-Cons requires pressing two buttons, each magnetically drawn to a corresponding magnet within the console's recess.

Furthermore, the patents illustrate a novel mouse-like function. By holding the Joy-Con sideways, 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).

Nintendo Switch 2 Joy-Con patent includes illustrations for the mouse functionality. More images in the link https://t.co/13ZNQtOMqF pic.twitter.com/ey3ufRUWZE

— Wario64 (@Wario64) February 6, 2025

The magnetic Joy-Con attachment was an early leak, while the mouse function emerged later. However, a January teaser subtly hinted at this feature, showing the Joy-Cons smoothly gliding across a surface.

For a comprehensive overview of known Switch 2 details, consult our detailed analysis. Mark your calendars: Nintendo plans a Switch 2 Direct on April 2, 2025, promising official confirmation.