Even with the ongoing chip shortages around the world, it looks as though Nintendo plans to launch a new Switch model later this year complete with a larger OLED touch screen.
As Bloomberg reports, people familiar with Nintendo’s plans have stated manufacturing of the new hybrid console is set to start in July followed by a release in September, although it may be delayed until October. The current models include a $199 Switch Lite and $299 Switch, but it’s thought the new model will command a higher price mainly due to the upgraded components it uses, which also suggests it will have a new name such as the often suggested Switch Pro.
We’re expecting the new Switch to use a 7-inch OLED panel supplied by Samsung. As for the internals, Nvidia forced Nintendo’s hand somewhat by deciding to stop production of the Tegra X1+ system-on-a-chip (SoC) the current Switch models rely on. It’s unclear which new SoC Nintendo has opted to use, but Nvidia’s Xavier and Jetson TX2 have both been mentioned, as has a custom SoC. We’re also expecting 4K output when hooked up to a TV.
Nintendo and its suppliers are apparently confident of keeping up with demand for this new model because the components required by the Switch are “subject to less competition than those in its rivals’ more powerful consoles.” However, the difficulty consumers have had buying the existing Switch models over the past year suggests Nintendo won’t be able to churn the OLED Switch out fast enough, especially if it’s planning a worldwide launch in September.