The Nintendo Switch 2 could be released soon. And inevitably, given the advent of AI, it is possible that the console will integrate AI for upscaling, and therefore improve the graphics. In any case, this is what a document filed by the manufacturer explains.
- A patent filed by Nintendo indicates that the Switch 2 could integrate AI that improves graphics in real time thanks to upscaling
- The technology would use machine learning algorithms that increase the resolution of images, with examples including from 540p to 1080p or even 4K
- This patent could concern future consoles, with the Switch 2 planned for March 2025, according to rumors
AI in video games is a reality. Sony and AMD have made it official that the technology will be integrated into the PS6 and, according to a document filed by Nintendo, the same for the Switch 2. The patent details upscaling technology capable of “convert images of a given resolution to a higher resolution, usable in real time for images generated by a video game engine”.
AI would be integrated into the Nintendo Switch 2 for upscaling
The technology is based on machine learning algorithms so that the Switch 2 increases image resolution without hardware overhead. The patent shows several examples such as upscaling a 540p image to 1080p to improve graphics quality. However, the document specifies that these examples are illustrative and that the technology also applies to 4K, which would be available for the console. It could be an Nvidia technology that is based on the motherboard revealed by recent images.
One of the interesting aspects of the patent concerns file size management. Technology could reduce the space occupied by video games “in order to adapt them to physical media of limited size”. The principle would be to store textures in low resolution, then improve them using AI upscaling during display.
-L’upscaling via l’IA is nothing new in the video game industry. On PC, Nvidia’s DLSS and AMD’s FSR technologies have been adopted by gamers to improve graphics performance. Sony did the same with PSSR on the PS5 Pro. That the Switch 2 integrates it is not an oddity.
However, the filing of this patent does not guarantee its integration into the Switch 2. Nintendo could reserve it for other upcoming consoles and simply protect its technological interests. All that remains is to wait for the release of the console, which could take place in March 2025, according to rumors.
