As teased by Nintendo, Nvidia has shed some light on the custom GPU that powers the Nintendo Switch 2. While the details might not satisfy the most ardent tech enthusiasts, Nvidia's revelations are certainly intriguing. In a recent blog post, Nvidia confirmed what IGN had reported earlier: the GPU enables AI upscaling via DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling) and supports ray tracing, significantly enhancing the gaming experience.

DLSS, an AI-powered technology, leverages machine learning to upscale lower-resolution images in real-time. This not only boosts performance but also improves image quality in games. Nvidia described the Switch 2's GPU as a "custom Nvidia processor featuring an Nvidia GPU with dedicated RT Cores and Tensor Cores for stunning visuals and AI-driven enhancements."

Nvidia emphasized the immense effort behind the Switch 2, stating, "With 1,000 engineer-years of effort across every element—from system and chip design to a custom GPU, APIs, and world-class development tools—the Nintendo Switch 2 brings major upgrades." These upgrades include the capability for up to 4K gaming in TV mode and up to 120 FPS at 1080p in handheld mode. The console also supports HDR and AI upscaling to enhance visuals and smooth gameplay.

The inclusion of RT Cores allows for real-time ray tracing, which delivers lifelike lighting, reflections, and shadows, creating more immersive gaming worlds. On the other hand, Tensor Cores power AI-driven features like DLSS, boosting resolution for sharper details without compromising image quality. Interestingly, Nvidia mentioned that the Tensor Cores also enable AI-powered face tracking and background removal in video chat scenarios, enhancing social gaming and streaming experiences.

During the Nintendo Direct, Nintendo introduced the C button, which facilitates new chat functionality using an external camera and the Switch 2's built-in microphone. The technology is smart enough to focus on the player's voice and filter out background noise, enhancing communication clarity.

Nvidia made a bold claim about the Switch 2's performance, stating, "With 10x the graphics performance of the Nintendo Switch, the Nintendo Switch 2 delivers smoother gameplay and sharper visuals." Although the specifics of this performance boost remain undisclosed, tech experts like Digital Foundry will likely scrutinize these claims when the Switch 2 launches in June.

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Nvidia further explained that the Tensor Cores "boost AI-powered graphics while keeping power consumption efficient," and the RT Cores "enhance in-game realism with dynamic lighting and natural reflections." The Switch 2 also supports Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) via Nvidia G-SYNC in handheld mode, ensuring ultra-smooth, tear-free gameplay.

In a hardware-focused roundtable Q&A in New York, attended by IGN, Nintendo representatives confirmed the use of DLSS in the Switch 2 but did not specify which version or whether it had been customized for the console. Similarly, they were vague about the GPU's ray tracing capabilities. Tetsuya Sasaki, General Manager at Nintendo's Technology Development Division and Senior Director at its Technology Development Department, stated that Nintendo prefers not to delve deeply into hardware specs. "Nintendo doesn't share too much on the hardware spec," he said. "What we really like to focus on is the value that we can provide to our consumers. But I do believe that our partner Nvidia will be sharing some information."

In January, a patent filed in July 2023 but published earlier this year, described AI image upscaling technology that helps keep video game download sizes small enough to fit on physical game cartridges while offering up to 4K textures.

For more information, explore everything announced at the Switch 2 Nintendo Direct and expert opinions on the Switch 2 price and Mario Kart World's $80 price tag.