News Overview
- The upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 is reported to utilize a custom NVIDIA chip featuring an Ampere architecture GPU.
- This information comes from a Nikkei report, suggesting a significant upgrade in graphical capabilities compared to the original Switch.
- The integration of Ampere architecture hints at potential support for technologies like DLSS.
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In-Depth Analysis
- The article focuses on the implications of the Nintendo Switch 2 using an NVIDIA Ampere-based GPU. The Ampere architecture is a significant leap forward from the Tegra X1 chip (based on Maxwell architecture) found in the original Switch, offering substantial improvements in performance and power efficiency.
- While the exact specifications of the custom NVIDIA chip are unknown, the Ampere architecture is known for its enhanced tensor cores (for AI acceleration) and improved ray tracing capabilities, although the extent of ray tracing support in the Switch 2 remains speculative.
- The potential inclusion of Ampere strongly suggests the possibility of NVIDIA’s Deep Learning Super Sampling (DLSS) technology being implemented in the Switch 2. DLSS could allow the console to render games at a lower internal resolution and then upscale them to a higher output resolution using AI, resulting in improved visual fidelity with a smaller performance cost.
Commentary
- The reported adoption of an NVIDIA Ampere GPU in the Nintendo Switch 2 is a very positive development for the platform. It signals a significant commitment to graphical power, potentially bringing the visual quality of Switch games closer to that of modern consoles and PCs.
- The inclusion of Ampere architecture opens up exciting possibilities, particularly regarding DLSS. If implemented effectively, DLSS could be a game-changer for the Switch 2, enabling smoother frame rates and higher resolutions without demanding significantly more processing power. This is crucial for a handheld/hybrid console.
- This partnership between Nintendo and NVIDIA continues to be strategically important for both companies. For Nintendo, it provides access to cutting-edge GPU technology. For NVIDIA, it secures a significant volume order and further solidifies its presence in the embedded and console markets. The success of the Switch 2 with Ampere could further pave the way for future collaborations.