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Nvidia Boosts Nintendo Switch 2 Graphics by 10x with Custom GPU

As teased by Nintendo, Nvidia has now shed light on the custom GPU powering the Nintendo Switch 2, though the details provided were not as in-depth as tech enthusiasts might have hoped for.In a recent blog post, Nvidia confirmed what IGN had reported earlier from Nintendo: the GPU supports AI upscal

By Mila: Apr 07,2025

As teased by Nintendo, Nvidia has now shed light on the custom GPU powering the Nintendo Switch 2, though the details provided were not as in-depth as tech enthusiasts might have hoped for.

In a recent blog post, Nvidia confirmed what IGN had reported earlier from Nintendo: the GPU supports AI upscaling through DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling) and ray tracing. DLSS is an AI-powered technology that uses machine learning to upscale lower-resolution images in real-time, enhancing both performance and image quality in games.

Nvidia provided a bit more insight into the Switch 2's GPU, describing it as a "custom Nvidia processor featuring an Nvidia GPU with dedicated RT Cores and Tensor Cores for stunning visuals and AI-driven enhancements." They emphasized the extensive effort behind the console, stating, "With 1,000 engineer-years of effort across every element — from system and chip design to a custom GPU, APIs, and world-class development tools — the Nintendo Switch 2 brings major upgrades."

These upgrades include support for up to 4K gaming in TV mode and up to 120 FPS at 1080p in handheld mode. The Switch 2 also supports HDR and AI upscaling, which helps to sharpen visuals and smooth gameplay. The new RT Cores enable real-time ray tracing, enhancing the realism of lighting, reflections, and shadows, while Tensor Cores power AI-driven features like DLSS, boosting resolution for sharper details without sacrificing image quality.

Interestingly, Nvidia mentioned that Tensor Cores also facilitate AI-powered face tracking and background removal in video chat scenarios, enhancing social gaming and streaming experiences. During the Nintendo Direct, Nintendo introduced the C button, which supports new chat functionality using an external camera and the Switch 2's built-in microphone. The technology is designed to focus on the player's voice while filtering out background noise.

Nvidia made a bold claim about the Switch 2's performance, stating, "With 10x the graphics performance of the Nintendo Switch, the Nintendo Switch 2 delivers smoother gameplay and sharper visuals." However, they did not provide details on how this performance metric was calculated. It will likely be up to experts like Digital Foundry to analyze these claims once the Switch 2 launches in June.

Nvidia also highlighted that Tensor Cores "boost AI-powered graphics while keeping power consumption efficient," and RT Cores "enhance in-game realism with dynamic lighting and natural reflections." Additionally, Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) via Nvidia G-SYNC in handheld mode ensures ultra-smooth, tear-free gameplay.

In a hardware-focused roundtable Q&A in New York, attended by IGN, Nintendo representatives confirmed the use of DLSS in the Switch 2 but did not specify which version or whether it had been customized for the console. They also confirmed the GPU's capability for ray tracing but remained vague on specifics. Tetsuya Sasaki, General Manager at Nintendo’s Technology Development Division, and Senior Director at its Technology Development Department, emphasized Nintendo's focus on consumer value rather than detailed hardware specs, stating, "Nintendo doesn't share too much on the hardware spec. What we really like to focus on is the value that we can provide to our consumers. But I do believe that our partner Nvidia will be sharing some information."

In January, a patent filed in July 2023 and published earlier this year was spotted online, describing AI image upscaling technology that would help keep video game download sizes small enough to fit on a physical game cartridge while offering up to 4K textures.

For more information, check out everything announced at the Switch 2 Nintendo Direct and expert opinions on the Switch 2 price and Mario Kart World’s $80 price tag.