The Nintendo Switch is approaching its four-year anniversary, with the hit hybrid console only launched in March 2017. Since then, the Switch has sold like hot cakes, with a recent report claiming that the console exceeded the 3DS ‘life sales by just over the 3DS. shame of 76million. And according to rumors, the total sales of Switch will get a further boost by the upcoming release of the heavily rumored Switch Pro model.
Rumors of a Switch Pro have been circulating for some time now, and the mid-generation upgrade is expected to begin in 2021.
And before the console’s official unveiling specifications for the Switch Pro allegedly leaked. As reported by VGC, data documents could have found evidence of the existence of the Switch Pro in the latest firmware update for the console.
The data miner that spotted it is known as SciresM, with the leaker claiming that the firmware update refers to a new piece of Nintendo hardware codenamed Aula.
The Nintendo Switch Pro will reportedly be powered by the Mariko (Tegra X1 +) SoC, which is the same chip found in the Switch Lite.
While this may not sound like much of an upgrade, SciresM has suggested that this chip be pushed to a higher clock speed.
And interestingly, SciresM has discovered that the firmware also refers to a Realtek chip described as ‘4K UHD multimedia SoC’.
This will work with other reports claiming that the Switch Pro is capable of playing 4K.
SciresM said the Switch Pro may not be able to play 4K games in manual mode, as this may only be possible once the console is connected to a phone.
This is because the chip needed for 4K games can be found in the console’s dock.
While this may be a disappointment to some gamers, it has been claimed that the Switch Pro will ‘definitely’ have an OLED screen – which will significantly improve the screen when played in manual mode.
It is also believed that the Switch Pro will have a significantly “better cooling and battery life.
So far, Nintendo has been speculating about the possibility of a Switch Pro, but the console is expected to get a release date in 2021.
Last year, Bloomberg reported that Nintendo had asked developers to get 4K games ready, further speculating that a Switch Pro console is on the horizon.
Recently, Nintendo of America President Doug Bowser was questioned by Polygon about the possibility of a Switch Pro.
Bowser said: “We’re always looking at technology. And as we know, technology’s constantly evolving and changing. And we’re always looking at what’s going to determine: how can it enhance and enhance the gaming experience? And whether it’s on a current platform, or it’s now on a future platform, we’re always looking at it. ‘
If Nintendo does release a Switch Pro in 2021, it could be part of a packed year for the House of Mario.
Fans have already been teased that there are ‘very special’ plans to celebrate the Pokémon franchise’s 25th anniversary.
While The Legend of Zelda franchise is also celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2021.
And judging by how big Nintendo celebrated Mario’s 35th anniversary last year, it would not be a surprise to see some big Zelda plans as well.
We would not be surprised to see a number of Zelda games being transferred to the Switch, such as Wind Waker and Twilight Princess – which have already received HD upgrades for the Wii U.
Although there have long been rumors that Skyward Sword will be coming to the Nintendo Switch.
But the best of Zelda fans’ wish list for 2021 is the release of Breath of the Wild 2.
There are rumors that VAT 2, plus Metroid Prime 4, may be on its way to the Switch in 2021.
If so, this year will be an extremely exciting time to be a Nintendo fan.