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

As teased by Nintendo, Nvidia has now shed some light on the custom GPU powering the Nintendo Switch 2, though it didn't dive as deep into the technical specifics as tech enthusiasts might have hoped. In a recent blog post, Nvidia confirmed what IGN reported earlier today from Nintendo: the GPU supports AI upscaling via DLSS and ray tracing. Nvidia's DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling) uses AI to upscale lower-resolution images in real-time, boosting 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 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 to enhance visuals and smooth gameplay. The new RT Cores enable real-time ray tracing, which delivers "lifelike lighting, reflections, and shadows for more immersive worlds," according to Nvidia. Meanwhile, the Tensor Cores power AI-driven features like DLSS, "boosting resolution for sharper details without sacrificing image quality."

Nvidia also mentioned that Tensor Cores enable AI-powered face tracking and background removal in video chat scenarios, enhancing social gaming and streaming. During the Nintendo Direct, Nintendo introduced the C button, which facilitates 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 boldly claimed that "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 was measured, leaving it to experts like Digital Foundry to analyze once the Switch 2 launches in June.

Nintendo Switch 2 System and Accessories Gallery

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Nvidia 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." The Switch 2 also supports Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) via Nvidia G-SYNC in handheld mode, ensuring ultra-smooth, tear-free gameplay.

During a hardware-focused roundtable Q&A in New York, attended by IGN, Nintendo confirmed that the Switch 2 uses DLSS but did not specify which version or whether it was customized for the Switch 2. Similarly, they confirmed the GPU's ray tracing capability without providing detailed information. Tetsuya Sasaki, General Manager at Nintendo's Technology Development Division, and Senior Director at its Technology Development Department, emphasized Nintendo's preference to focus on consumer value rather than hardware specs, stating, "Nintendo doesn't share too much on the hardware spec... 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 surfaced online, describing AI image upscaling technology that would 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 what the experts have to say about the Switch 2 price and Mario Kart World’s $80 price tag.