After months of speculation, Nintendo has just announced the newest addition to the Nintendo Switch family of hardware. This latest model displays some big improvements, most notably to the screen. The new model, which Nintendo has dubbed the “Nintendo Switch (OLED Model) will feature some key differences over its original predecessor. From the official Nintendo website, the console is on full display for those intrigued by this new console. For starters, the most notable difference is in the size of the display. The Nintendo Switch (OLED Model) boasts a 7-inch OLED display. We’re shown just how much of a difference this screen makes in the trailer, with games like Metroid Dread, The Sequel to The Legend of Zelda: Breath of The Wild, and Pokémon Brilliant Diamond & Shining Pearl.
Along with this bigger and brighter screen, the Nintendo Switch (OLED Model) has a more widely adjustable kickstand for play in Tabletop Mode. The system’s new onboard speakers provide enhanced audio as well in Handheld Mode. More features include 64 gigabytes of internal storage, and a built-in wired-LAN port. We get to see these all in use during the typical Nintendo montage trailer, with family and friends all gathered around having fun with the new console. We even briefly see new gameplay of what is presumably Splatoon 3!
Surprising to some though is that this new Switch model conflicts with reports that many have reported from Bloomberg. Those reports had been saying that new model would come with 4K capabilities, a faster CPU, and even more powerful graphics with an Nvidia chip installed. Shortly after the announcement of the Nintendo Switch (OLED Model), Nintendo spoke to The Verge saying that “Nintendo Switch (OLED model) does not have a new CPU, or more RAM, from previous Nintendo Switch models”.
While some may be disappointed in the lack of actual internal hardware upgrades, it is worth noting that Nintendo has little to no history of launching significantly more powerful mid-generation hardware refreshes. This console stays in line with their usual hardware philosophy, such as with the New Nintendo 3DS and the DSi. While those models were able to play a handful of games that the previous models could not, this new Switch model ensures that nobody is missing out on these new gaming experiences by not wanting to upgrade.
The Nintendo Switch (OLED Model) launch isn’t far off for those eager to “upgrade” to this latest model. The new model launches later this year on October 8th alongside Metroid Dread for an MSRP of $350. The new model will launch in two colors: the red and blue color scheme we’ve grown accustomed to, and in white as well. Already existing Joy-Cons will also be compatible with this new Switch model, with new cases and screen protectors releasing as well. While the upgrades may not mean much for some, this new beautiful display may just be what an interested buyer has been waiting for all this time.