Here we go again, folks. As 2024 finally comes to a close, the Switch 2 rumor mill is running at full speed as we all anxiously await any official announcement from Nintendo about their next console. While Nintendo remains tight-lipped, more information continues to trickle out from unofficial sources, such as case manufacturers and so-called “industry insiders.” The latest leak comes from a “leaker” going by the name of NextHandheld on Twitter and Reddit. While relatively unknown, they have shared some compelling images. Of course, this information should be taken with a massive grain of salt. With that in mind, here’s what they claim.
I've come from the future
— NextHandheld (@NextHandheld) December 16, 2024
It all began on December 18th, when NextHandheld claimed on Reddit to have gotten their “muggy hands” on the final release version of the Switch 2 and its dock. The leaker promised to share proof with the world on Christmas morning in the form of pictures. Predictably, most subreddit users dismissed the post as nonsense. However, much to everyone’s surprise, NextHandheld followed through, sharing the pictures with a moderator of the NintendoSwitch2 subreddit, who corroborated their story. At that point, people began to take notice.
As people waited anxiously for Christmas, NextHandheld took to Twitter on Christmas Eve to share what appears to be some information about upcoming Joy-Con colors. They claim the new colors will be baby blue and orange—an interesting combination if true.
Matte black. Will baby blue and orange become iconic?
— NextHandheld (@NextHandheld) December 25, 2024
Fast forward to yesterday, Christmas Day, and NextHandheld delivered on their promise, releasing multiple images of the supposed Switch 2 and its dock. The first image showed a side view of the alleged console, highlighting the Joy-Con connector, a magnetic system, and a kickstand. A Nintendo logo is also visible.
🎄This holiday season, I couldn’t resist sharing this gift with you all. Some might call it an early reveal… but I call it the best-kept secret of the year. 👀🎁 pic.twitter.com/btAcUo9j0Q
— NextHandheld (@NextHandheld) December 25, 2024
The second image features a close-up of the Nintendo Switch 2 logo on the front of the dock. Interestingly, the logo resembles the original Switch logo but with a large “2” next to it. If these images turn out to be real, it seems Nintendo is keen to avoid repeating the Wii U’s branding confusion. This is unmistakably branded as the Switch 2.
Finally, an image of the dock itself was shared, appearing to be more rounded than the current Switch dock. It also seems to feature a more sophisticated cooling solution.
It's all just AI generated. pic.twitter.com/NdNHIgUOpi
— NextHandheld (@NextHandheld) December 26, 2024
Naturally, the online community is debating the validity of these claims. Many speculate that AI could have been used to generate the images. Others, with backgrounds in 3D printing and industrial design, claim it would be almost impossible to 3D print the dock pictured above with that level of detail. However, the design aligns with several other industry leaks we’ve seen so far. Would I go so far as to say this is 100% real? Absolutely not. But there is a chance that this could be our first genuine look at the Switch 2. Here’s hoping Nintendo doesn’t keep us waiting much longer for an official announcement. Stay tuned!
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