Nvidia Boosts Nintendo Switch 2 Graphics by 10x with Custom GPU

As hinted by Nintendo, Nvidia has now shed light on the custom GPU that powers the Nintendo Switch 2. Although the details might not satisfy the tech enthusiasts' thirst for in-depth specs, Nvidia has confirmed several exciting features that elevate the gaming experience to new heights.

In a recent blog post, Nvidia verified the earlier reports from IGN and Nintendo itself: the new GPU supports AI upscaling through DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling) and introduces ray tracing capabilities. DLSS is an innovative AI-powered technology that leverages machine learning to upscale lower-resolution images in real-time, significantly boosting both performance and visual quality in games.

Nvidia provided a glimpse into the capabilities of the Switch 2's GPU, describing it as a "custom Nvidia processor featuring an Nvidia GPU with dedicated RT Cores and Tensor Cores for stunning visuals and AI-driven enhancements." The company emphasized the monumental effort behind the Switch 2, stating, "With 1,000 engineer-years of effort across every element—from system and chip design to a custom GPU, APIs, and world-class development tools—the Nintendo Switch 2 brings major upgrades."

These upgrades promise impressive performance, including up to 4K gaming in TV mode and up to 120 FPS at 1080p in handheld mode. Additionally, the Switch 2 supports HDR and AI upscaling "to sharpen visuals and smooth gameplay." The new RT Cores enable real-time ray tracing, providing "lifelike lighting, reflections, and shadows for more immersive worlds." Meanwhile, the Tensor Cores power AI-driven features like DLSS, "boosting resolution for sharper details without sacrificing image quality."

Nvidia also highlighted that the Tensor Cores support AI-powered face tracking and background removal in video chat scenarios, enhancing social gaming and streaming experiences. During the Nintendo Direct, Nintendo introduced the C button, which facilitates new chat functionality using an external camera and the built-in microphone of the Switch 2. The technology is smart enough to focus on the player's voice while filtering out background noise.

Nvidia boldly claimed that "With 10x the graphics performance of the Nintendo Switch, the Nintendo Switch 2 delivers smoother gameplay and sharper visuals." While the specifics of how this performance was measured remain undisclosed, it will be up to experts like Digital Foundry to validate these claims once the Switch 2 launches in June.

Nintendo Switch 2 System and Accessories Gallery

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Nvidia further stated that the Tensor Cores "boost AI-powered graphics while keeping power consumption efficient," and the RT Cores "enhance in-game realism with dynamic lighting and natural reflections." The Switch 2 also supports Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) via Nvidia G-SYNC in handheld mode, ensuring "ultra-smooth, tear-free gameplay."

In a hardware-focused roundtable Q&A in New York, attended by IGN, Nintendo representatives confirmed the use of DLSS in the Switch 2 but did not specify which version or whether it had been customized. Similarly, they acknowledged the Switch 2's GPU's ray tracing capabilities without diving into specifics. Tetsuya Sasaki, General Manager at Nintendo’s Technology Development Division, and Senior Director at its Technology Development Department, emphasized Nintendo's focus on consumer value over detailed hardware specs. He noted, "Nintendo doesn't share too much on the hardware spec. What we really like to focus on is the value that we can provide to our consumers. But I do believe that our partner Nvidia will be sharing some information."

Earlier this year, a patent filed in July 2023 surfaced, describing AI image upscaling technology that helps keep video game download sizes small enough to fit on physical game cartridges while offering up to 4K textures.

For more information, explore everything announced at the Switch 2 Nintendo Direct, and learn what the experts have to say about the Switch 2 price and Mario Kart World’s $80 price tag.