It’s been all go in the world of the Nintendo Switch lately with a new all-in-one Lite edition and an iteration of the original promising significant battery life improvements.
However, according to a new report, the new hardware could be just the beginning when it comes to bringing the hybrid console’s battery life up to snuff.
The Wall Street Journal says Nintendo is working with Sharp to bring new display technology to future Switch models, which could offer higher resolution visuals, and greater durability. However, perhaps most importantly, the displays use smaller transistors offering much improved power efficiency.
IGZO displays could also improve the overall quality of the built-in display and an improvement on the amorphous silicon displays currently sitting within the existing Switch models. Some gamers have complained about haziness, but improved transparency offered by IGZO displays could reduce the need for brighter backlighting (via Gizmodo).
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The WSJ report references comments from a Sharp executive claiming the Japanese firm will supply the indium gallium zinc oxide panels to Nintendo. Sharp, as it happens, was the first manufacturer to perfect and mass produce the technology.
“We will provide what we are most good at, IGZO,” said Sharp Executive Vice President Katsuaki Nomura, when asked about what the display maker will be bringing to the table.
It’s not clear whether Nintendo plans to introduce these displays into the current product cycle or whether Nintendo will be saving it to the rumoured Pro edition of the console.
The most recent hardware iteration promises up to nine hours of battery life, up significantly on the 6.5 hours promised by the original model. If you’re playing The Legend of Zelda Breath of the Wild you’ll get 5.5 hours of gaming, compared to three hours on the original.
The consoles are distinguished by their model numbers. The original is HAC-001 with serial numbers starting with XAW. The upgrade is HAC-001(-01) with serial numbers beginning with XKW.
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Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
