Rumors have been circulating for quite some time, suggesting that the Switch 2 could feature Joy-Con controllers with wireless mouse capabilities. These rumors are now more convincing thanks to the recent Nintendo patent unveiling.
Not much is known about the final design, but this patent gives a glimpse into how Nintendo could use the Joy-Con hardware to bring mouse-like features, with detailed diagrams and descriptions.
This patent, made public in February 2025 after being filed in August 2023, points to possible features that could eventually double as wireless mice. According to the patent, there's a "mouse operation sensor" in the Joy-Con that tracks light reflections from surfaces as it moves, similar to how optical sensors work in computer mice.
The sensor's position on the Joy-Con allows it to monitor motion on flat surfaces.
The patent's sketches reveal several ways the Joy-Con could be used, one of which involves placing it flat on a surface and holding it like a traditional mouse. The user’s index fingers rest on the triggers, and their thumb is on the joystick, which could be used for scrolling. The patent reveals that the Joy-Con will attach to the Switch 2 magnetically.
This backs up earlier rumors that the controllers can connect securely to the console or a separate charging dock. Interestingly enough, the patent also hints at a modular system, where the controllers can either work as a single unit or be split into two separate Joy-Cons. Nintendo hasn’t confirmed how this feature will be part of the Switch 2 experience yet, but these patents make the earlier rumors about the Switch 2 a lot more likely.
We can expect the full details, including confirmation of mouse functionality, during the Nintendo Direct on April 2, 2025. Until then, these patents and teasers are our best guess as to what the Switch 2 might offer gameplay-wise.