One of the more consistent complaints leveled at the Nintendo Switch hardware regards Joy-Con connectivity problems. In many cases, players have reported the controllers (typically the left Joy-Con) acting up and losing connection, even at relatively close distances.
Nintendo released an explanation soon after launch, blaming microwaves, other electronic devices and, bizarrely, aquariums. Now, however, it looks like the company may have gotten to the root of the problem.
(image removed at the request of CNET)
CNET’s Sean Hollister sent off his Joy-Con to get repaired, following a surprisingly easy call to Nintendo’s customer services at 6pm PT on a Saturday. Once the device got back they cracked it open and compared it to an earlier photo – revealing a tiny black square of foam.
Supposedly this does the trick, with CNET figuring it’s likely conductive foam treated with nickel, copper or both. This has been known to shield electronics from RF interference, and CNET figures it’s sitting on top of the Joy-Con’s antenna.
The outlet also ordered a brand new Joy-Con from Amazon which apparently works just as well – meaning Nintendo may have started incorporating this foam into the manufacturing process.
So from what it sounds like, if you’re having frequent connectivity issues it might be worth giving Nintendo’s customer services a call.
Leave a Comment
Written by Tom Brown
Whether it’s an exciting new entry in a series long established or a weird experiment meant only for the dedicated, Tom is eager to report on it. Rest assured, if Nintendo ever announces Elite Beat Agents 2, he’ll be there.
