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Nvidia Custom GPU Boosts Switch 2 Graphics 10x

by Blake Nov 13,2025

As anticipated by Nintendo, Nvidia has now shared details about the custom GPU that will power the Nintendo Switch 2, though it stopped short of the in-depth technical breakdown many enthusiasts were hoping for.

In a blog post, Nvidia confirmed earlier reporting from IGN and Nintendo: its GPU supports AI upscaling using DLSS and real-time ray tracing.

Nvidia DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling) leverages artificial intelligence and machine learning to upscale lower-resolution graphics in real time, improving both performance and visual fidelity in games.

Additional details on the Switch 2's GPU were also disclosed. Nvidia referred to it as a “custom Nvidia processor with an Nvidia GPU that includes dedicated RT and Tensor Cores for breathtaking visuals and AI-powered improvements.”

Nvidia added: “With more than a thousand engineer-years invested across all components—from system and chip architecture to the custom GPU, APIs, and professional-grade development tools—the Nintendo Switch 2 represents a major leap forward.”

The upgrades enable 4K gaming in TV mode and up to 120 FPS at 1080p in handheld mode. The Nintendo Switch 2 is also HDR-compatible and supports AI upscaling “to enhance clarity and maintain smooth gameplay.”

The new RT Cores introduce real-time ray tracing, which provides “realistic lighting, reflections, and shadows for a more immersive gaming experience,” Nvidia explained.

Meanwhile, Tensor Cores drive AI-based capabilities like DLSS, “boosting image resolution for crisper visuals without loss of quality.”

Notably, Nvidia indicated the Tensor Cores also support AI-driven facial tracking and background removal for video chat, “improving social gaming and streaming.”

During the Nintendo Direct, the company unveiled the C button, which supports new chat features using an external camera and the Switch 2's built-in microphone. Nintendo emphasized the system’s ability to prioritize the player’s voice while reducing background noise.

And here’s a major claim from Nvidia:

“With a 10x improvement in graphics performance over the original Nintendo Switch, the Switch 2 delivers smoother gameplay and sharper graphics.”

Nvidia did not explain how this performance metric was calculated. That analysis will likely be left to experts such as Digital Foundry once the Switch 2 launches in June.

Nintendo Switch 2 System and Accessories Gallery

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Nvidia also stated that the Tensor Cores “enhance AI-driven graphics while maintaining energy efficiency,” while the RT Cores “improve realism through dynamic lighting and accurate reflections.”

Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) via Nvidia G-SYNC in handheld mode “guarantees ultra-smooth, tear-free gameplay.”

In a hardware-focused Q&A session held yesterday in New York and attended by IGN, Nintendo representatives confirmed DLSS support for the Switch 2 but did not clarify which version or whether it was customized for the console. Nintendo was similarly vague when confirming the GPU’s ray-tracing capabilities.

And what about the GPU itself? Tetsuya Sasaki, General Manager of Nintendo’s Technology Development Division and Senior Director of its Technology Development Department, shared that Nintendo tends to avoid deep technical details regarding components like the GPU.

“Nintendo typically doesn’t share much about hardware specifications,” he said. “We prefer to focus on the value delivered to our players. However, I expect our partner Nvidia will provide some information.”

Earlier this year, a patent filed in July 2023 and published for the first time outlined AI image upscaling technology that would help keep game download sizes small enough for physical cartridges while offering textures up to 4K.

For more, check out everything announced during the Switch 2 Nintendo Direct, and what experts are saying about the Switch 2 price and Mario Kart World’s $80 price tag.

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