The countdown has begun for Nintendo Switch 2. The company faces a challenging task with the handheld they have been working on for quite some time. This time around, they not only have to compete with PlayStation and Xbox but also contend with alternative rivals like Steam Deck. Furthermore, both performance expectations in games and among gamers are quite high. However, a recent leak suggests that the Japanese game developer may not be too concerned about this situation, as the Switch 2 might lack special hardware to run DLSS. Here are the details…

Resolution Ceiling for Nintendo Switch 2 May Hit 1080p/1440p Without DLA

Unfortunately, we don’t know much about Nintendo Switch 2 yet. However, one thing we do know is that it will incorporate the T239 chipset, which significantly outperforms the Nvidia Tegra X1 and X1+ found in current handhelds. The use of Nvidia technologies is crucial at this point because the issue goes beyond just graphics. Nintendo, aiming to prolong the console’s lifespan, wants to leverage artificial intelligence technologies like DLSS.

However, according to emerging information, the company is avoiding spending money on DLA (Deep Learning Accelerator) that directly influences DLSS performance. For those unfamiliar, DLA, or Deep Learning Accelerator, is a specialized processor designed to help GPUs perform deep learning tasks more efficiently. It is particularly critical for enhancing the performance of DLSS. DLSS renders the game image at a lower resolution and then uses DLA to recreate the image at a higher resolution.

This allows games to be displayed at higher resolutions with higher frame rates. In summary, DLA transforms DLSS into a more efficient and powerful technology, delivering better image quality. Unfortunately, the alleged T234 chip that the company is rumored to use does not support this technology. This directly implies that the handheld will not be able to provide a 4K 60 FPS gaming experience. If the claims are accurate, without DLA, Nintendo Switch 2 will be limited to running games at 1080p or at best 1440p resolution.

Unfortunately, we currently lack more information on this matter. Perhaps the only thing we can do is wait for new leaks and the console expected to be unveiled in the first quarter of 2024.

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