The Nintendo Switch 2 may look strikingly similar to its predecessor at first glance, but Nintendo appears to be saving its most significant upgrades for the Joy-Con controllers—details of which have emerged through a series of recently uncovered patents.

While Nintendo has yet to officially confirm the features, leaks and filings strongly suggest that the Switch 2’s Joy-Cons will now attach magnetically to the console. Even more intriguing, they may double as a computer mouse, offering a new way to interact with games and system menus.

According to the patent, “This game controller is detachably mounted to a body device that has a recess, that comprises a first magnet and a second magnet at the bottom of the recess, and that can execute game processing.” This magnetic docking system ensures a secure yet easily detachable connection.

The patent also describes a two-button release mechanism for detaching the Joy-Cons. “The first button and the second button are provided in the longitudinal direction in the top surface of the protrusion,” it states. “The first button and the second button are to be pressed by a user. The first button is attracted to the first magnet by a magnetic force. The second button is attracted to the second magnet by a magnetic force.” This design balances ease of use with stability.

Perhaps the most innovative feature revealed is the mouse-like functionality. Illustrations in the patent show a player holding a single Joy-Con sideways, using it like a traditional mouse. The R1 and R2 shoulder buttons act as left and right mouse buttons, while the analog stick may support scrolling or cursor movement. Additional diagrams depict multiple configurations—one Joy-Con as a mouse and the other as a standard controller, or both used simultaneously in a dual-mouse setup.

These mouse capabilities were subtly hinted at in Nintendo’s January teaser, which showed the Joy-Cons gliding smoothly across a surface—much like a computer mouse. While not yet officially confirmed, the visual cue aligns perfectly with the patent details.

The magnetic attachment system was among the first Switch 2 leaks, while the mouse functionality surfaced later. With a Nintendo Switch 2 Direct scheduled for April 2, 2025, fans can expect full official details then. Until then, the patents offer a compelling glimpse into how Nintendo is reimagining controller versatility for the next generation.