The Method of Operating the Switch 2 JoyCons in Mouse Mode Exposed
The chatter about the Nintendo Switch 2's JoyCons having some mouse-like capabilities is no longer just speculation. A recently unveiled patent from Nintendo hints at the truth behind those larger sequel Switch controllers. The patent, filed on August 1, 2023, is now public after being published by the World Intellectual Property Organization, with Polygon first spotting the document.
According to the patent's machine translation, the primary focus is on a "wireless mouse" feature. The sensor at the heart of this feature is described as a "mouse operation sensor" that detects reflections of light from the surface, which changes as the controller moves across it. This principle is similar to that used by modern optical computer mice, which employ an optoelectronic sensor that takes countless images of the surface per second.
Nintendo's patent, however, does not directly reference an optoelectronic sensor. Instead, it mentions a "hole provided on one side surface" for guiding reflected light to the "mouse operation sensor." This hole might be located between the joystick and the four buttons on the other side of the JoyCon.
Looking at the diagrams, it seems that the trigger and bumper buttons on each controller will function as clickable elements. The thumbstick, which seemingly plays a significant role, may act as a scroll wheel or an additional scrolling function. The upcoming Nintendo Direct conference, set for April 2, could reveal more insights into this anticipated feature.
Another patent for a Switch 2 JoyCon "Attachment" describes how Nintendo could potentially use magnetic attachment points for separate peripherals. The patent even displays a flat puck with a USB-C port, which the JoyCons can dock into for charging.
Although companies often file patents for ideas that never materialize, these Switch 2 mouse-like capabilities appear to be one of the closest we've gotten to mouse functionality for the device. Given the detailed diagrams and the revelation of features such as scaling, this appears likely to be a key selling point for Nintendo's new handheld.
Modern PC games could significantly benefit from the addition of mouse capabilities to the Switch 2. Executive producer of Civilization VII, Dennis Shirk, recently voiced his enthusiasm for Nintendo's controller tweaks, stating, "I love what they are doing with the controllers." Popular strategy games, such as Frostpunk 2, would then become more playable on the new hardware. Nintendo may even position the mouse feature for first-person shooters, depending on its accuracy and latency.
There have also been reports of the new JoyCons featuring accelerometer technology for limited motion control. Additionally, the JoyCons magnetically attach to the main system body. However, concerns remain regarding the potential damage the JoyCons might sustain if repeatedly inserted and removed from the port. Only time will tell as we wait for more official news from Nintendo.
The inclusion of tech related to a "wireless mouse" in Nintendo's patent for the Switch 2's JoyCon controllers suggests a shift towards advanced technology in the gaming industry's future. With the patent describing a "mouse operation sensor" and potential scroll wheel function for the thumbstick, Nintendo could be revolutionizing the way we play modern PC games on handheld devices.
