Switch 2 Joy-Con Patent Points to Rumored Mouse Support Function

Recent developments in Nintendo’s latest patent filings suggest that the upcoming Switch 2 Joy-Con may feature built-in mouse support, fueling excitement ahead of the next major console launch. The details emerged following a patent publication by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) on February 6, 2025, revealing potential new functionalities for the Switch 2's controllers. Read on to explore the rumored features and the official schedule for the next Nintendo Direct.

Switch 2 Introduces Enhanced Controller Features

Patent Reveals Mouse-Like Functionality for Joy-Con

The next-generation Switch 2 is expected to bring significant upgrades to its Joy-Con design, with the most notable being mouse-like input capabilities. According to the WIPO document, Nintendo has filed a patent detailing how the Joy-Con can detect movement across a surface using an optical sensor—similar to how a traditional computer mouse operates.

This speculation gained traction after the Switch 2 reveal trailer briefly showed a Joy-Con being slid across a flat surface, hinting at its potential use as a pointing device. The newly published patent reinforces this theory, stating:
"The sensor for mouse operation detects reflected light from a detected surface, the light changing by moving over the detected surface in a state in which either the first side surface or the second side surface is placed on the detected surface."

While Nintendo has remained silent on official features, this patent strongly indicates that the company is exploring more versatile control methods for broader gameplay and interface navigation.

Advanced Joy-Con Features and New Controller Options

The Switch 2 Joy-Con is expected to maintain its modular design, allowing detachment from the main console for flexible gameplay. However, the updated version will reportedly include several enhancements:

• Optical Motion Sensing: Enables precise mouse-style tracking when placed on a flat surface.
• Dual Charging Dock Support: A new charging station will allow simultaneous charging of up to two Joy-Con units.
• Magnetic Attachment System: An improved magnetic connector will secure the Joy-Con to the console, complete with an integrated wrist strap for added safety—similar to the current model.

In addition to the standard Joy-Con, the patent also outlines a new pair of standalone controllers. These resemble a split design, each equipped with an optical sensor on the side for mouse functionality. When paired with a dedicated attachment, these two halves can be combined into a full-sized, unified gamepad, offering players multiple control configurations.

It’s important to note that while these features are detailed in the patent, they may not all make it into the final consumer product. Nintendo often explores a wide range of concepts during development, and only select innovations are typically implemented in the released hardware.

Upcoming Nintendo Direct: Everything We Know

Nintendo of America confirmed via X (formerly Twitter) on February 5, 2025, that a dedicated Nintendo Direct presentation focused on the Switch 2 will air on April 2, 2025, at 6 AM PT / 9 AM ET. The event will be streamed across all official Nintendo social media channels and is expected to provide deeper insights into the console's hardware, software lineup, and release timeline.

While the Switch 2 trailer confirmed a 2025 launch window, Nintendo has yet to announce a specific release date. For ongoing updates, including rumored specs, game reveals, and accessory details, visit our comprehensive [Switch 2 hub][ttpp].