Nintendo Will Release Two New Switch Models This Year: Report
Numerous rumors have pointed to Nintendo’s intention to launch a revamped Switch hardware variant as the console enters its crucial third year. The rumors have bounced back and forth between a more powerful Switch and a budget model. Now, a report from the Wall Street Journal claims that both devices are coming later this year.
The third year of a console’s life cycle is considered make or break for its long-term success. Most gamers have made their choices for that generation, so it gets harder to attract new customers. This is usually when new hardware variants launch, generally with smaller form factors and lower prices. However, there have also been some more expensive and powerful mid-cycle consoles like the PS4 Pro and Xbox One X.
Nintendo has reportedly been in talks with partners about the new hardware for months. Those who have used the new Switches say they include numerous feature changes. So, this isn’t just a Switch “Slim” release. One or both consoles will likely have a new LCD from Sharp instead of the current JDI screens.
Meanwhile, the cheaper Switch will reportedly focus on trimming features. The WSJ says the device will ditch the vibration motor. Past leaks have pointed to non-removable controllers, a smaller frame, and no dock mode for the less expensive console. Nintendo sees this as a successor to the aging 3DS for more casual gamers. Even without those features, a stripped down switch would work with almost all the games already launched.
The WSJ says the Nintendo is expected to announce the new Switch consoles at E3 in a few months. The consoles could launch as soon as this summer, but they’ll definitely be out in time for the holiday season and the release of the new Pokemon games.
Continue reading
Cyberpunked 2077: CDPR ‘Apologizes’ For Releasing Broken Game, Offers Refunds
Cyberpunk 2077's PS4 and Xbox One S version is so bad, the company is now offering refunds. We recommend last-gen console gamers take them up on it, rather than waiting.
Unreleased Nintendo Game Boy Keyboard Brought Back to Life
Gaming history YouTuber Liam Robertson has gotten his hands on a Work Boy — possibly the last one in the world, and it's working thanks to that giant Nintendo data leak from a few months back.
Google Releases First Android 12 Developer Preview
The first developer preview is available today, and you can take a peek at the new OS if you've got a recent Pixel phone. Be warned: this is a very early build that you should not use on your main phone.
NASA Releases Incredible Perseverance Rover Landing Video
NASA's Perseverance rover has been on the surface of Mars for several days, giving the team here on Earth time to run system checks and download preliminary data from the robot. The agency has now released the first large batch of media from the mission, including hundreds of still images and the first video and audio ever recorded on Mars.