Nintendo may be exploring a more versatile dock for its hybrid consoles, according to a newly discovered patent filed in China.
Reported by Nintendo Patents Watch, the patent describes a dock that could work with both the original Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2.
Patent outlines automatic support for both consoles
The patent suggests the dock would automatically detect which console is connected and adjust its hardware accordingly. When paired with the original Switch, it would use USB 2.0, while the Nintendo Switch 2 would use USB 3.0, support higher video output, and feature an integrated fan for additional cooling.
If commercialized, such a dock could be particularly useful for households that own both Nintendo systems, eliminating the need for separate docking stations.
As with many Nintendo patents, however, there is no guarantee the product will ever be released.
Nintendo frequently files patents to protect ideas and technologies, many of which never become consumer products. The filing instead offers an early look at concepts the company may be evaluating for future hardware accessories.
For now, the patent remains an interesting look into Nintendo’s ongoing hardware research rather than an official product announcement.
