Overview of Recent Developments
- A recent FCC filing suggests Nintendo is developing a new Pro Controller for the upcoming Switch 2.
- The potential new controller may feature a headphone jack and enhanced battery performance.
- Further information regarding the Nintendo Switch 2 will be unveiled during a Direct presentation scheduled for April 2.
As anticipation builds for the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct presentation, fans have begun to speculate about a new, yet-to-be-announced Pro Controller. Although specific details remain elusive until the official livestream, early insights have emerged, showcasing redesigned Joy-Cons that include a new button and possible mouse functionalities. If these rumors hold true, the Nintendo Switch 2 could also sport a revamped version of the Pro Controller.
Scheduled for about an hour on April 2, Nintendo’s Direct will provide comprehensive details about the Switch 2. In the lead-up to this event, enthusiasm among fans has prompted a barrage of inquiries surrounding release dates, specifications, and pricing. While much of the discourse has focused on the console as a whole, there are growing discussions about additional features and accessories. Given the modernized Joy-Con design, an updated Pro Controller seems likely, and fans are optimistic about what it could entail.
Users on Famiboards recently discovered a new FCC filing from Nintendo for a device marked “BEE-008,”which appears to be a new iteration of the Pro Controller. While the publicly available details of the application are limited, they confirm that Nintendo has been actively testing and registering a new gaming controller. Given the timing of the filing, it is almost certainly distinct from the refreshed Joy-Cons for the Switch 2. Additionally, past FCC submissions from Nintendo have referenced the Pro Controller with the designation “E,”which further supports the hypothesis that this new device is indeed an updated controller. Despite the absence of a Pro Controller in Nintendo’s recent showcase of the Switch 2, the original model received widespread acclaim, making a sequel highly anticipated.
FCC Documents Hint at Features for the New Switch 2 Pro Controller
The FCC documentation for the BEE-008 controller also suggests compatibility with headphones, something that was notably omitted in the original Pro Controller for the previous Nintendo Switch. Additionally, the new gamepad employs both Bluetooth and NFC communication standards, aligning with the connectivity features of the original version, which connected not only to the console but also to Amiibo figures.
What adds intrigue to the filing is the indication of a different battery voltage compared to all prior Switch models. This particular detail points to a potentially upgraded battery, although it remains to be seen how this will affect charging times or the overall lifespan between recharges. The original Pro Controller boasts an impressive performance of up to 40 hours on just six hours of charging—a benchmark that sets a high standard. It will be fascinating to discover if Nintendo manages to enhance these specifications even further when they officially unveil the details.