As teased by Nintendo, Nvidia has now shed light on the custom GPU powering the Nintendo Switch 2, though the level of detail provided might not satisfy all tech enthusiasts. In a recent blog post, Nvidia confirmed the integration of AI upscaling via DLSS and ray tracing, technologies that were previously reported by IGN based on information from Nintendo itself.
Nvidia's DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling) is an innovative, AI-powered technology that utilizes machine learning to upscale lower-resolution images in real-time. This not only enhances the performance of games but also significantly improves image quality. The blog post highlighted the Switch 2's GPU as a "custom Nvidia processor featuring an Nvidia GPU with dedicated RT Cores and Tensor Cores," designed to deliver stunning visuals and AI-driven enhancements.
Nvidia emphasized the extensive development 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 include support for up to 4K gaming in TV mode and up to 120 FPS at 1080p in handheld mode, along with HDR and AI upscaling to enhance visuals and gameplay smoothness.
The inclusion of new RT Cores enables real-time ray tracing, which Nvidia says will deliver "lifelike lighting, reflections, and shadows for more immersive worlds." On the other hand, Tensor Cores power AI-driven features like DLSS, which boosts resolution for sharper details without compromising image quality. Interestingly, Nvidia also mentioned that these Tensor Cores can enable AI-powered face tracking and background removal for video chat functionalities, 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 Switch 2's built-in microphone. The technology is designed to intelligently focus on the player's voice while filtering out background noise.
Nvidia made a bold claim about the Switch 2's performance, stating, "With 10x the graphics performance of the Nintendo Switch, the Nintendo Switch 2 delivers smoother gameplay and sharper visuals." While the exact method used to determine this performance boost was not detailed, it's expected that tech experts like Digital Foundry will provide a thorough analysis once the Switch 2 launches in June.
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Nvidia also highlighted the efficiency of the Tensor Cores in boosting AI-powered graphics while keeping power consumption in check, and the role of RT Cores in enhancing in-game realism through dynamic lighting and natural reflections. The addition of Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) via Nvidia G-SYNC in handheld mode ensures 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 the version or any customizations made for the console. Similarly, they confirmed the GPU's capability for ray tracing but remained vague on the specifics.
Tetsuya Sasaki, General Manager at Nintendo’s Technology Development Division and Senior Director at its Technology Development Department, explained Nintendo's approach to hardware disclosure, 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 internet's attention. It described an AI image upscaling technology designed to keep video game download sizes small enough to fit on a physical game cartridge while offering up to 4K textures.
For more information, check out everything announced at the Switch 2 Nintendo Direct, and what the experts have to say about the Switch 2 price and Mario Kart World’s $80 price tag.
