Nintendo’s latest patent has sparked renewed speculation about the upcoming Switch 2 console. The company’s “Systems and Methods for Machine Learned Image Conversion” patent, filed in July 2023 but published just this week, describes a process for using artificial intelligence to upscale game textures without significantly increasing file sizes.
The technology could help reduce digital footprints of new games, potentially making them more accessible on the existing Switch hardware. For example, a 4K texture upgrade might increase an install size from 18GB to 60GB, but an AI-upscaled version could stay at just 20GB.
Meanwhile, alleged leaks about the Switch 2’s motherboard have sparked debate among fans about its semiconductor manufacturing process and potential performance. While exact details remain unknown, Nintendo has consistently demonstrated its ability to optimize hardware for affordable performance in the past. As the company prepares to reveal the official specs and features of the new console, gamers will be eagerly awaiting a clearer picture of what’s in store.
Source: https://kotaku.com/nintendo-switch-2-announcement-ai-4k-motherboard-leak-1851731108