Summary
TheNintendo Switch 2will reportedly have 10 times the graphics power of its predecessor, at least according to Nvidia, the creator of the Switch 2’s custom Tegra system-on-a-chip (SoC). Nvidia also claimed that the upgraded Tegra SoC of theSwitch 2contains a graphics processor with dedicated ray tracing and Tensor Cores that can be used for AI-based features like DLSS upscaling technology.
Whilethe Switch 2 will include a 4K Dockand a 1080p screen with a 120hz refresh rate, the system will internally pack a graphical punch.According to an Nvidia blog post, the Switch 2’s custom Tegra SoC will be 10 times more powerful than the original Switch and include support for ray tracing and AI-based technologies such as Deep Learning Super Sampling (DLSS). DLSS upscaling uses the Tensor Cores available on compatible Nvidia GPUs, such as the RTX lineup, that are usually found in PCs. However, the new Tegra SoC from Nvidia will also include an undisclosed number of Tensor Cores and RT Cores, along with support for variable refresh rate via Nvidia’s G-Sync technology when in handheld mode.
The Switch 2’s Tegra Chip Makes It 10 Times More Powerful Than Its Predecessor
It is unclear which version of DLSS the Switch 2 will utilize, as later versions include support for technologies like frame generation on top of upscaling. Nvidia also stated that the Tensor Cores will also be used for Switch 2 features like GameChat video calls to remove backgrounds and provide face tracking. Only time will tellwhat other tricks the Switch 2 has up its sleeve.
However, with graphically intense third-party games such asFinal Fantasy 7 RemakeandCyberpunk 2077confirmed to receive Switch 2 ports, DLSS upscaling will likely come into play in both handheld and docked modes. It remains to be seen how smoothly those games will run on Switch 2 compared to other consoles.
