It looks like we may be getting a new Nintendo Switch for 2019. The company is currently in development on an updated version of the hit gaming console, according to WSJ. After what has been an amazing run for Nintendo’s new hybrid machine this generation, sliding sales are apparently motivating the refresh.
Back in July we reported on Nintendo’s dwindling Switch sales. But don’t be fooled here, while numbers have begun to slow fairly dramatically, the company is still expected to hit its goal. Nintendo told investors it is expecting to hit 20 million consoles sold year over year, ending March 2019. It may still have a ways to go, but a new Nintendo Switch and an expected big-time holiday run should keep them in the race.
While its hardcore fanbase already has one of the 19.7 million Switch consoles Nintendo has sold, the release of Super Smash Bros. Ultimate will likely help out. Not to mention the Switch Smash Bros. Ultimate bundle at $359.99 that hit a couple months back along with the Pikachu/Eevee and Fortnite bundles.
It’s certainly not uncommon for the big console makers to release updated and even sometimes less expensive machines mid generation. Sony and Microsoft have both been doing this for a while as a way to refresh interest in the platform and it looks like Nintendo is following suite with new Switch hardware.
Here’s What We Know So Far:
Suppliers and others familiar with the internal project said Nintendo is still tinkering with the specifics. It sounds as though the machine will be mostly the same in terms of functionality and software support. However, there have apparently been some new ideas thrown around internally.
The current hardware sports a less than state-of-the-art LCD display. And this is something the development team is considering improving for the new Nintendo Switch console. Clearly updating the display could mean a much sleeker and more efficient operation for the Switch overall, but it sounds as though the new console will not be seeing the OLED panels found in already available consumer devices from Apple and the like. A new Nintendo Switch display that’s brighter and drains less of your battery life would certainly be a welcomed addition. But it all depended on how it effects the MSRP really.
This mysterious new Nintendo Switch hardware is apparently looking at a 2019 release date as of right now. According those privy, Nintendo is eyeing a release as soon as next summer. Which could mean the new hybrid machine gets unveiled at, or around E3 2019.
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