Nintendo is unveiling an updated version of its Switch console today, with promises of improved battery life. The new model will include approximately two extra hours of battery life, bringing the estimates of usage to between 4.5 and 9 hours. Nintendo’s current Switch has an estimated battery life of between 2.5 and 6.5 hours.
Nintendo’s Switch product page doesn’t reveal exactly how the company has achieved this improved battery life, but it’s likely thanks to a new system-on-chip inside and updated memory. A recent FCC listing revealed that Nintendo was planning to update the Switch with a new CPU and storage. This new model, dubbed HAC-001(-01), should start appearing in stores soon. You’ll need to check for serial numbers starting with XKW to make sure you get the model with the best battery life.
Nintendo’s updated Switch comes just a week after the company unveiled the Switch Lite, a smaller and cheaper model designed for handheld play. The Switch Lite has a smaller 5.5-inch touch display, and battery life between 3 and 7 hours. Nintendo is planning to make the Switch Lite available for $199 on September 20th.
