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

As Nintendo had hinted, Nvidia has now shed light on the custom GPU that powers the Nintendo Switch 2. While the details shared didn't satisfy the hunger of tech enthusiasts, they did confirm some exciting features. In a blog post, Nvidia corroborated IGN's earlier report from Nintendo that the GPU supports AI upscaling via DLSS and ray tracing.

Nvidia DLSS, or Deep Learning Super Sampling, is a cutting-edge AI technology that leverages machine learning to upscale lower-resolution images in real time. This not only enhances the performance of games but also significantly improves their visual quality.

Nvidia provided a bit more insight into 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." They emphasized the extensive effort behind the console, 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 include support for up to 4K gaming in TV mode and up to 120 FPS at 1080p in handheld mode. The Switch 2 also supports HDR and AI upscaling, which works to sharpen visuals and smooth gameplay. The new RT Cores enable real-time ray tracing, offering "lifelike lighting, reflections, and shadows for more immersive worlds." Meanwhile, Tensor Cores power AI-driven features like DLSS, "boosting resolution for sharper details without sacrificing image quality."

Nvidia also mentioned that the Tensor Cores enable AI-powered face tracking and background removal in video chat scenarios, enhancing social gaming and streaming. During the Nintendo Direct, Nintendo introduced the C button, which supports new chat functionality using an external camera and the Switch 2's built-in microphone. This technology is designed 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." However, they did not specify how this performance metric was calculated, leaving it to experts like Digital Foundry to dissect once the Switch 2 launches in June.

Nintendo Switch 2 System and Accessories Gallery

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Nvidia further highlighted 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." Additionally, Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) via Nvidia G-SYNC in handheld mode "ensures ultra-smooth, tear-free gameplay."

At a hardware-focused roundtable Q&A in New York, attended by IGN, Nintendo representatives confirmed the use of DLSS in the Switch 2 but remained vague on specifics such as which version of DLSS or whether it was customized for the Switch 2. Similarly, they confirmed the GPU's ray tracing capabilities without going into detail.

Tetsuya Sasaki, General Manager at Nintendo’s Technology Development Division and Senior Director at its Technology Development Department, explained Nintendo's stance on hardware details, saying, "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."

In January, a patent filed in July 2023 and published earlier this year caught the attention of the internet. This patent described AI image upscaling technology designed to keep video game download sizes manageable enough to fit on physical game cartridges while providing up to 4K textures.

For more detailed 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.