Nintendo has quietly submitted a new “wireless device” to the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for approval, sparking speculation. However, this device does not appear to be the much-anticipated Switch 2, as many initially suspected.
Confidentiality Request Until 2025
The specifics of the device are currently being kept confidential at Nintendo’s request. Details will remain under wraps for another 180 days, pushing the release of this information to late March 2025.
Known Details
Despite the secrecy, a few key details about the device have surfaced:
- Shape: The device is described as a roughly square object with curved corners when viewed from underneath.
- Wireless Capabilities: It includes a 24GHz mmWave sensor, a notable feature often associated with detecting human presence or movement in smart home technology.
- Power Source: The device is powered by a USB-C connection, aligning with modern hardware standards.
Potential Use Cases
While it’s uncertain what this device is, the inclusion of a 24GHz mmWave sensor raises interesting possibilities. These sensors are typically used in smart home environments to detect motion or presence, which has led to speculation that the device might be used for gesture detection or even as a party game accessory. However, its actual purpose remains unknown.
The product code for the device, “CLO-001,” suggests it is a standalone item rather than a peripheral for the rumored Switch 2. The code doesn’t align with any of Nintendo’s current hardware lines and seems to point to a new product category entirely.
Nintendo’s Position
Nintendo’s application for confidentiality cites concerns that revealing too much technical information could give competitors an advantage. The company describes the information as “trade secrets and proprietary,” reinforcing the importance of the mystery device to Nintendo’s broader strategy.
For now, the gaming community can only speculate on the nature of this new technology until more details are revealed in early 2025.