We’ve all been waiting for a Nintendo Switch Pro or a Switch 2, but for now, we learned that a Lite version would be released this fall. According to a report by Japanese business journal Nikkei, which was translated by US Gamer, it seems that we will get a new Switch version – Nintendo Switch Lite.
Initially, US Gamer had a mistranslation of the Japanese article, suggesting that the next-gen Switch (the Pro version) will be postponed because of technical problems. In a correction on this article, we found out that “the lighter version of the Switch will be dockable with the television.”
A Small, Budget-Friendly Switch and a Next-Gen Switch Model
An improved translation on PCG includes more details:
Beyond the smaller, budget-focused model lies the development of the overhauled next-generation model intended to replace the one currently available. Nintendo is believed to be experimenting on a number of different things for the device, including usability, improved image rendering, and changes to the operating system, among other things. One development source contends, however, that it still remains unclear at this stage who at the company will end up taking the lead on conceptual development for the new console.
So, the two devices are under development. The Lite version is close to completion, and the improved next-gen Switch is still at a stage where it’s not even a concept. It’s not clear if the next-generation model will be a Switch Pro or a Nintendo Switch 2, but we think it might be the latter, as the quote above notes many new improvements and features that should appear in a new device and not just in a Pro version.
As for the Nintendo Switch Lite, early reports from the Wall Street Journal mentioned that Nintendo is working on a cheap version of the console, which will be more portable and slimmer, with Nikkei adding that this will be a “smaller, budget-focused model.” Although focused on portability, the Nintendo Switch Lite will also be dockable and playable on a TV.
The Nintendo Switch was released in March 2017 and had a lot of success. Considering Microsoft and Sony are also working on next-gen consoles, Nintendo must also step up their game and not just offer a Switch Lite or Switch Pro, but a Switch 2.
Sonia Theo has been writing for more than 15 years, first starting with fantasy stories. She has a bachelor’s degree in English and German, and one in Arts and Design. In the past years, her interests in gaming and tech news grew, so she started writing articles, guides and reviews for players. In her spare time, you’ll see Sonia playing WoW, crafting decorations and jewelry, or walking her dog. For Digital Overload, Sonia Theo will cover all things tech and gaming, delivering fresh updates on your favorite games.