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

A recently published patent hints at exciting new features for the Switch 2 Joy-Cons, including potential mouse functionality. Read on to discover more about these enhancements and the official date for the upcoming Nintendo Direct.

Switch 2: Joy-Con Innovation

Mouse Support Confirmed?

A February 6, 2025, World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) publication details a Nintendo patent for the Switch 2 Joy-Cons, revealing intriguing capabilities. The patent strongly suggests mouse functionality, bolstering speculation ignited by the Switch 2 reveal trailer, which showed the controller being swiped across a surface. This patent offers a significant confirmation, especially given Nintendo's previous silence on Switch 2 details.

Enhanced Joy-Cons and New Controllers

The Switch 2 Joy-Cons retain the detachable design of their predecessors, but the patent highlights their potential use as a mouse. The document describes a sensor that detects reflected light, enabling mouse-like operation when a Joy-Con is placed on a surface.

A new charging dock supporting simultaneous charging of up to two Joy-Cons is also mentioned. A magnetic attachment, complete with a wrist strap, securely connects the Joy-Cons to the console.

The patent also introduces a novel controller design: a standard controller split into two halves, each equipped with an optical sensor for mouse functionality. These halves can be combined using a separate attachment to form a traditional controller.

It's important to remember that the patent details might not perfectly represent the final product. Nintendo hasn't officially commented on the Joy-Con's features or any related accessories.

Nintendo Direct: April 2nd

Nintendo of America announced on Twitter (X) on February 5, 2025, that a Nintendo Direct focusing on the Switch 2 will air on April 2, 2025, at 6 AM PT/9 AM ET across all official Nintendo social media channels.

While the Switch 2 trailer confirmed a 2025 release, a precise date remains unannounced. For further information on the Switch 2, visit our dedicated page.