Nintendo Switch 2 might lack special hardware to run DLSS

According to multiple leaks and rumors, Nintendo is developing Switch 2, a handheld gaming device that will arrive as a successor to the Switch and the Switch OLED. Reportedly, the upcoming product will feature the Nvidia T239 chipset, which is expected to perform significantly better than the Nvidia Tegra X1 and X1+ that power the current generation of Switch models, allowing the Switch 2 to offer a faster and smoother performance as well as much better graphics performance than its predecessors.

Rumors suggest that one of the features that will make this SoC offer better graphics performance is Nvidia’s Deep Learning Super Sampling (DLSS) technology. It leverages artificial intelligence (AI) to generate more frames, making games look smoother. While this feature can run on a CPU, it works a lot better with a deep learning accelerator (DLA). So far, it was believed that the T239 features a DLA, as the chipset that it is based on, which is Nvidia T234, also has a DLA. Unfortunately, that might not be the case.

According to Digital Foundry, Nvidia T239 does not have a DLA, which means that DLSS on Nintendo Switch 2 might not perform as well as it does on chipsets with a DLA. In other words, DLSS on the upcoming gaming device might not be able to improve the graphics performance as much as it does on devices that have a DLA. Furthermore, without the special hardware to run the technology, DLSS will have to rely on a CPU a lot more, which would further impact the overall performance of the Nintendo Switch 2.

Nintendo Switch 2 might not be able to run games at 4K 60FPS

Richard Leadbetter at Digital Foundry says that without DLA, the Nintendo Switch 2 might only be able to run games at 1080p, or in the best-case scenario, at 1440p resolution. It implies that the gaming device might not be able to run games at 4K resolution. A recent leak claimed that Nintendo demoed Switch 2 running Zelda: BOTW at 4K resolution and 60 frames per second (fps). Unfortunately, that might not be happening after all. However, nothing can be said for sure until we get a solid proof on the matter.

Chipset aside, the Nintendo Switch 2 is expected to feature an improved screen, redesigned controllers, and increased memory capacity. The company is expected to launch the Switch 2 in March 2024.