Switch 2 Joy-Con Patent Points to Rumored Mouse Support Function

A recently published patent suggests the Switch 2 Joy-Cons may offer mouse functionality. Read on to learn more about these exciting new controller features and the official date for the upcoming Nintendo Direct.

Switch 2: Joy-Con Innovations

Mouse Support Confirmed?

A February 6, 2025, World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) publication details a Nintendo patent for the Switch 2 Joy-Cons, revealing intriguing new capabilities. The patent highlights mouse-like functionality, seemingly confirming earlier speculation sparked by the Switch 2 reveal trailer, which showed the controller being swiped across a surface. This patent provides strong evidence, especially given Nintendo's previous silence on Switch 2 details.

Enhanced Joy-Cons and New Controllers

The Switch 2 Joy-Cons appear similar to their predecessors, remaining detachable from the console. The key innovation, as highlighted in the patent, is their potential to function as a mouse. The patent describes a sensor that detects reflected light from a surface, enabling mouse-like control.

A new charging dock accommodating up to two Joy-Cons simultaneously is also mentioned. A magnetic attachment, incorporating a wrist strap, connects the Joy-Cons to the console.

Furthermore, the patent introduces a new controller design: a standard controller split into two halves, each equipped with an optical sensor for mouse functionality. These halves can be combined using a separate attachment to form a traditional controller.

It's crucial to remember that the patent details might not represent the final product. Nintendo has yet to officially comment on the Joy-Con's features or any related accessories.

Nintendo Direct: Switch 2 Details Revealed

Nintendo of America announced via Twitter (X) on February 5, 2025, that a Nintendo Direct focusing on the Switch 2 will air on April 2, 2025, at 6 AM PT / 9 AM ET. The announcement will be broadcast across all official Nintendo social media platforms.

While the Switch 2 reveal trailer confirmed a 2025 release, a precise date remains unannounced. For more information on the Switch 2, visit our dedicated Switch 2 page.