Nintendo has filed a patent for its new Switch 2 Joy-Cons, which would allow the controllers to be slid across a flat surface like a computer mouse. The International Patent Office published the document on Thursday, revealing details of how it works.
The patented design includes a built-in light source and sensor inside the controller that detects reflected light from a detected surface. This technology is similar to optical computer mice.
To use this feature, users would cradle one edge of the controller with their palm and place the other on a flat surface. Meanwhile, their thumb would access the analog stick, while their index and middle fingers operate the shoulder buttons as if they were right- and left-click buttons.
The design aims to provide an easy-to-hold configuration that also allows for precise control over the mouse functionality, with the shoulder buttons wrapping around the controller’s curved top corner. This patent strengthens rumors of a potential Switch 2 feature that could enhance gaming experiences.
Source: https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2025/02/nintendo-patent-explains-switch-2-joy-cons-mouse-operation-mode