Joy-Con Controller May Offer Mouselike Functionality

A newly published patent reveals exciting new features for the Switch 2 Joy-Cons, including rumored mouse functionality. This article delves into the details of the patent and the upcoming Nintendo Direct.

Switch 2 Joy-Cons: Mouse Support and More

The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) published a Nintendo patent on February 6, 2025, detailing innovative features for the Switch 2's Joy-Cons. The patent strongly suggests mouse functionality, corroborating earlier speculation sparked by the Switch 2 reveal trailer, which showed a Joy-Con being swiped across a surface.

The patent describes a sensor that detects reflected light from a surface, enabling mouse-like control. While maintaining the detachable design of the original Switch Joy-Cons, this new iteration offers enhanced functionality. A new charging dock, capable of charging two Joy-Cons simultaneously, is also mentioned. A magnetic attachment, including a wrist strap, securely connects the Joy-Cons to the console.

Furthermore, the patent introduces a novel controller design: two separate controllers, each with an optical sensor for mouse functionality, that can be combined into a single unit via an included attachment.

It's crucial to remember that these features, as detailed in the patent, are not confirmed for the final Switch 2 product. Nintendo has yet to officially comment on Joy-Con functionality or any related accessories.

Nintendo Direct: April 2nd, 2025

Nintendo of America announced via Twitter (X) on February 5, 2025, that a Nintendo Direct focused on the Switch 2 will air on April 2nd, 2025, at 6 AM PT/9 AM ET across all official Nintendo social media platforms. While the Switch 2's 2025 release is confirmed, a specific date remains unannounced. For further updates on the Switch 2, visit our dedicated page.