Nintendo Switch 2 Could Be Getting Its Own Pro Controller With Helpful New Feature

Summary

A new FCC filing from Nintendo hints at a new Pro Controller for the Switch 2.
The rumored Pro Controller may have a headphone jack and improved battery life.
More information about the Nintendo Switch 2 will be shared during an April 2 Direct.

The Nintendo Switch 2 Direct is just around the corner, but fans already think they’ve spotted details regarding an unannounced Pro Controller in the meantime. While specifics remain uncertain before Nintendo goes into depth during the upcoming livestream, the new console has already shown off new and improved Joy-Cons, featuring a new button and possible mouse functionality. If this latest rumor proves true, the Nintendo Switch 2 could also get a redesigned Pro Controller.

Nintendo will detail the Switch 2 for roughly an hour on April 2, but fans have been eager to dig up more information on the console before this official presentation. Rumors about the system’s release date, specs, and price have dominated much of the conversation, but some leaks have centered around its smaller features and optional accessories. Given the new Joy-Con design, an updated version of the Switch Pro Controller would make sense, and now fans think they have a closer look at what that could look like.

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Famiboards users noticed an FCC filing from Nintendo for a product labeled “BEE-008” that sounds suspiciously like a new Pro Controller. The public details of the application don’t give much away, but they do confirm that Nintendo has registered and tested a new game controller. Given how recent the filing is, this is almost certainly something other than the Switch 2’s updated Joy-Cons. It’s also worth noting that previous filings from Nintendo used the letter “E” to refer to the Pro Controller, so if its FCC branding remains consistent, that’s likely what this new gamepad is. While Nintendo didn’t show a Pro Controller in its latest look at the Switch 2 and its controllers, the original was a big hit, so many expect it to release a Switch 2 version.

FCC Documents May Reveal a Switch 2 Pro Controller With Headphone Jack and New Battery

BEE-008’s FCC testing documents also indicate earphone support. Previous rumors had speculated that the Switch 2 Pro Controller would have a 3.5mm jack, which was noticeably missing from the Pro Controller for the original Switch. As for the gamepad’s communications standards, it looks like it uses both Bluetooth and NFC, which is consistent with how the first edition connected to the console and Amiibos, respectively.

Interestingly, the FCC files also show a different battery voltage than any previous Switch or Switch 2 products. That detail suggests the new gamepad will have an upgraded battery, though it’s unclear how that might impact recharging times or how long the hardware will last between charges. The original Pro Controller can last up to 40 hours on a six-hour charging time, which is still impressive compared to other wireless controllers, so it will be interesting to see if Nintendo can push that even further. Fans will have to wait for an official reveal to know for sure.