The Nintendo Switch 2 Joy-Cons may have a new trick

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Summary

  • The Nintendo Switch 2 Joy-Cons can work in a computer mouse-like mode.

  • References to the adhesive tape commonly used on the bottoms of computer mice have recently been found in some shipping manifests believed to be linked to one of Nintendo's parts suppliers.

  • The Switch 2 wouldn't be the first handheld console to offer an alternate mouse-like mode for (one of) its controllers, as the Lenovo Legion GO already did the same in 2023.

The Nintendo Switch 2 The Joy-Cons may be able to function as computer mice of sorts, according to some recently discovered circumstantial evidence. While it's doubtful that a mouse-like controller mode would see widespread adoption among game developers, the alleged feature seems to be in line with Nintendo's track record of experimentation.

Evidence pointing to this possibility was shared by Famiboards user LiC, who previously obtained some Vietnamese customs data detailing shipments linked to a company believed to be one of Nintendo's parts suppliers. This intelligence has turned out to be a gold mine of information and is the source of many Switch 2 rumors and speculations that have appeared online since mid-2024.

Nintendo Switch 2 mockup over the Gotham Knights blur cover

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In early January 2025, LiC returned to Famiboards to share another potential look at the upcoming device, revealing that they had previously discovered references to a polyethylene (PE) plastic adhesive tape described in customs declarations as intended to “stick to game console handles”. . Shipping records reportedly refer to these pieces of tape as “mouse soles,” a term commonly used for the bottom of a computer mouse. The mention of mouse pads in a potential Switch 2 parts list thus suggests that the upcoming console might be able to emulate mouse-like functionality.

LiC has discovered references to two mouse sole model numbers: LG7 and SML7. Game Rant was unable to find these markings in any public component database, suggesting that if they are real, they belong to brand new products yet to be released. The data obtained with LiC indicates that both pieces of plastic tape are 90 x 90 mm in size. Based on the previously leaked dimensions of the Switch 2, these sheets appear large enough to cover the entire back of the new Joy-Cons and then some. But since they have a square aspect ratio, additional cropping will likely be necessary before they are applied during assembly – assuming the LiC information is legitimate.

The Nintendo Switch 2 wouldn't be the first console to feature a mouse controller mode

While the mouse-like controller mode is in keeping with Nintendo's historical tendency to experiment, this type of technology has already been commercialized. The Lenovo Legion GO's right controller can also function as a mouse when turned sideways into a joystick-like shape. Lenovo even provides a circular piece of plastic to house the controller in this mode, helping it glide across surfaces more efficiently.

The Lenovo 2024 handheld also boasts magnetic strips for easy attachment of controllers, another feature the Switch 2 is rumored to have. In that sense, Legion GO could offer a glimpse of what Nintendo's second attempt at a hybrid console will look like.

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