A fan-made render of the rumoured Nintendo Switch Pro(Image credit: ZONEofTECH)
Ah, the Nintendo Switch Pro. We've been hearing rumours about the Switch's supposed successor for what feels like a century – but you don't need us to tell you that the console didn't appear at this month's E3 conference as many were expecting.
Nintendo has been characteristically tight-lipped about the Switch Pro – until now. The company's president, Doug Bowser (yes, his name is Bowser) was recently asked about the Switch Pro no-show, and gave us some insight into Nintendo's plans. (Check out the best Prime Day Nintendo Switch deals if you want to start gaming right here and now.)
The Nintendo Switch is starting to look a little dated (Image credit: Nintendo)
"We are always looking at technology and how technology can enhance gameplay experiences. It’s not technology for technology’s sake,” Bowser told The Washington Post. "And then where do you apply that technology? Do you want to apply it on current existing hardware or platforms, or do you want to wait for the next platform? And then what’s the right gameplay experience with that? There’s a host of factors that goes into it, and it’s something we’re always looking at."
Okay, so it's rather evasive answer – but it does suggest that Nintendo isn't planning to rush into releasing new tech for the sake of it. But then again, the company is "always looking at" new tech – so a souped-up Switch could well be on the horizon. The question is: when? With the PS5 and Xbox Series X raising the gaming stakes, we'd say now is a good time, Mr. Bowser. Right now.
According to leaks, the Switch Pro will mark a significant improvement on the original Switch. Not only will it feature a larger, brighter screen, but it's also set for massively enhanced internals. Bloomberg has claimed the Switch Pro will feature a 7-inch display (as opposed to the current model's 6.2-inches). What's more, it will do away with LCD technology in favour of an OLED screen – making it much brighter and crisper.
The report also suggested that the new Switch will support 4K output when connected to a TV. While the Switch currently supports 1080p output while docked (or 720p in handheld mode), 4K video would be a new frontier for Nintendo. Exploring Breath of the Wild's Hyrule or zooming around Bowser's castle in Mario Kart will be more immersive experiences than ever in crisp 4K.
We love this Switch Pro concept (Image credit: Computer Bild)
As for what the Super Nintendo Switch will look like, we'll have to wait and see. But if it's anything like this incredible 'Switch Pro' concept, fans will no doubt be pleased. Demonstrating what a larger display might look like, the design (above) features a huge, 4K screen and much more ergonomic-looking Joy Cons.
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Indeed, the Switch Pro can't arrive soon enough. That said, the current Switch is showing no signs of slowing down. And with today being Amazon Prime Day, there are some super-rare discounts to be found on the willy popular device:
Prime Day Nintendo Switch deals (US)
Nintendo Switch Lite - with Sandisk 129GB microSDXC card: $234.98 $199.99 at Amazon Save $34.99: Get the Switch Lite in blue plus a SanDisk memory card. Seeing as the Switch Lite itself costs $199.99 normally, you're the 128GB memory card is basically a free gift. You're welcome.
Nintendo Switch with 128GB SD Card + 12-in-1 carry case: $479 $429 at Amazon
Save $50: This is the biggest saving we've seen so far this Prime Day, and it's open to everyone. This bundle includes the all-important Switch, a handy carry case, 128GB SD Card, protective cover for the switch, a screen protector and more! All for just $429.
Prime Day Nintendo Switch deals (UK)
Nintendo Switch + Mario Kart 8 Deluxe:£349 £289 at AmazonSave £60.98: This is an Amazon bestseller, and we can see why. It's a really, really good offer, for a start. And you get to play Mario Kart straight away on your new blue and red Switch, what's not to like? DEAL ENDS 22 June 00:00 (BST)
Amazing value
Nintendo Switch and Pokemon Snap: £349.99 £309.99 at Amazon
Save £39.99: This is a really decent discount on the Nintendo Switch and the New Pokémon Snap game (inspired by the classic Nintendo 64 game, Pokémon Snap – remember that?!). Pokémon fans will definitely want to add to basket. DEAL ENDS 22 June 00:00 (BST)
If these deals don't take your fancy, or they aren't available in your area, check out more great Nintendo Switch deals below.
Daniel John is Design Editor at Creative Bloq. He reports on the worlds of design, branding and lifestyle tech, and has covered several industry events including Milan Design Week, OFFF Barcelona and Adobe Max in Los Angeles.
