# **Nintendo’s Switch 2 Joy-Cons Could Operate as Computer Mice, Patent Indicates**
## **Introduction**
Nintendo has consistently led the way in gaming advancements, and its latest patent hints at an intriguing feature for the forthcoming **Switch 2**. A recently unveiled **World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) patent** indicates that the **next-gen Joy-Cons** may serve as **optical computer mice**, permitting users to glide them across a flat surface for navigation. This capability could transform user interaction with the console, introducing fresh gameplay opportunities and enhancing usability.
## **Patent Insights and Operation**
The patent, first submitted in **January 2023**, became public on **WIPO’s site** in February 2025. It details a **”sensor for mouse operation”** that identifies reflected light from a surface, akin to the function of an optical mouse.
### **Operation Method**
– The **Joy-Con’s integrated light sensor** and **light source** enable it to monitor movement over a flat surface.
– Users can **hold the Joy-Con’s outer edge** with their palm while resting the inner edge on a tabletop.
– The **thumbstick remains reachable**, and the **shoulder buttons** can act as left and right-click buttons.
– The **shoulder buttons are designed to curve around the top corner**, facilitating easy access from various angles.
– The patent indicates that the **mouse function could operate even when the Joy-Con is suspended up to 1 cm above the surface**, similar to premium PC gaming mice.
## **Dual Mouse Functionality and Combined Use**
One of the most captivating elements of the patent is the potential for using **two Joy-Cons as mice** concurrently. This allows:
– Players to **maneuver two distinct cursors**, which could be advantageous for select games or creative tasks.
– Alternatively, one Joy-Con can serve as a **mouse**, while the other maintains a **traditional vertical grip**.
This functionality could greatly enhance experiences in **strategy games, creative tools, or even web surfing** on the Switch 2.
## **Contrast with Prior Joy-Con Design**
Patent diagrams portray a **revised holding method for the Joy-Con**, in contrast to the conventional grip. The **previous Joy-Cons were mostly tailored for handheld and motion-centric gameplay**, while this new approach introduces **desktop capability**, enhancing the versatility of the Switch 2.
## **Possible Uses**
If realized, this feature could offer numerous exciting opportunities:
– **Gaming:** Strategy titles, point-and-click experiences, and creative sandbox games could gain from precise cursor accuracy.
– **Productivity:** The Switch 2 might evolve into a **more practical option for browsing, drawing, or light office tasks**.
– **Accessibility:** Players who find traditional joystick controls challenging may experience **mouse-like movement as more intuitive**.
## **Implications for the Switch 2**
Although patents do not always assure inclusion in final products, this submission strongly implies that Nintendo is investigating **novel methods to improve player engagement**. The **first teaser trailer for the Switch 2** already hinted at **stabilizing mounts** for the Joy-Cons, which could enhance this mouse-like ability.
Nintendo is anticipated to unveil additional information in a **Switch-centric Direct presentation on April 2, 2025**. Until then, enthusiasts can only theorize about how this groundbreaking feature will fit into the next generation of gaming.
## **Conclusion**
Nintendo’s **patent for Joy-Con mouse capability** could signify a notable advancement in gaming hardware. If realized, it would provide **enhanced versatility, better control options, and new gaming experiences**. As we await official validation, this patent enhances anticipation for what the **Switch 2** may offer to the gaming industry.
