Even without the rumours, is anyone expecting the Switch 2 to be that much more powerful than the current hardware? (pic: Metro.co.uk)



If the newest Nintendo Switch 2 rumour is accuate, the console will integrate the same upgrades from the previously rumoured Switch Pro.



While rumours of new Nintendo hardware have persisted for several years now, there’s recently been so much talk of a new console that it feels like an official announcement is finally imminent.



Aside from the Nintendo Switch itself being six years old (meaning we’re overdue for some kind of hardware upgrade), it was reported back in January that Nintendo is readying for a 2024 launch, while a couple of reputable leakers have suggested it could launch, or at least be announced, this year .



Now, another supposed leak has popped up that not only reiterates a 2023 launch – specifically the second half of the year (so Christmas time) –  but also claims to know the exact specifications of the console, such as it being just as powerful as the PlayStation 4.



Supposedly codenamed Hawk, the Switch 2 will allegedly feature an OLED screen and be capable of ray-tracing and supporting 4K visuals at 30 frames per second. Although, just as is the case on PlayStation 4, the source says not to expect much ray-tracing in most games, as it is very processor intensive.



It was commonly rumoured that the elusive Switch Pro (which is believed to have been cancelled due to supply issues resulting from the pandemic) would also have 4K support and an OLED screen. So, either Nintendo is reintegrating the Switch Pro upgrades for its next console or this source is just parroting old rumours.



The fact that this rumour originates from 4chan doesn’t help its case, although Pocket Gamer reports that the source has accurately leaked Pokémon related info in the past.



Presumably, they’re referring to the same individual from 4chan who predicted several details about the Pokémon Scarlet & Violet DLC .



We’re currently unable to corroborate that since the original post has been taken down, although it’s unclear if that’s as a result of action from Nintendo.



If it is that would give the rumours additional credence, since no company would bother to remove a fake leak.



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While it’s important to be sceptical about any Switch 2 info that doesn’t come straight from Nintendo, there are signs from the company that new hardware is on its way.



Nintendo’s current release schedule is looking mighty dry after The Legend Of Zelda: Tears Of The Kingdom . The only other first party title is Pikmin 4 in July and, while highly anticipated by fans, it’s hardly a major release compared to something like a new Mario or Zelda.



This could point to Nintendo devoting most of its energy to developing games for the Switch successor, though the company has also stressed that support for the current console will continue into 2024 .



The Switch still has plenty of life left in it according to Nintendo (pic: Nintendo)



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