Published on: March 09, 2025
Nintendo has once again affirmed its commitment to the popular amiibo platform with its next-generation hardware.
As reported by The Verge, just ahead of the anticipated Nintendo Direct broadcast, official Federal Communications Commission (FCC) documentation has revealed that the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 will retain support for near-field communication (NFC) technology—ensuring full compatibility with Nintendo’s extensive line of amiibo toys.
Amiibo, which debuted on the Wii U before expanding to the Nintendo 3DS and Nintendo Switch, have become a significant part of Nintendo’s ecosystem.
These figurines utilize NFC to unlock in-game bonuses, costumes, and features, further engaging fans across some of the company’s most beloved franchises.
According to the FCC filings, the Nintendo Switch 2 will house its NFC reader on the right Joy-Con controller, continuing the design tradition first introduced with the original Switch.
Users will be able to activate amiibo functionality by tapping a figure to the analog stick of the right Joy-Con, much as they have since 2017.
While detailed specifics remain scarce, glimpses shown in the Switch 2’s initial January trailer indicate several hardware innovations.
These include a new magnetic attachment system for the Joy-Con—replacing the existing rail-based mechanism—and the possible addition of an optical sensor, suggesting future mouse-like control options.
The continued inclusion of NFC technology demonstrates Nintendo’s recognition of the amiibo brand’s enduring popularity.
Furthermore, the company has confirmed that the Switch 2 will feature backwards compatibility, ensuring gamers can seamlessly transition their libraries and accessories, both physical and digital, from earlier systems.
Nintendo’s ongoing integration of RFID and NFC capabilities within its core hardware solidifies the company’s toys-to-life strategy while maintaining accessibility for collectors and long-time users.
The amiibo platform’s expansion across Wii U, 3DS, and Switch has supported hundreds of compatible games, helping Nintendo reach new marketing and revenue milestones.
As anticipation builds for an in-depth unveiling of the Nintendo Switch 2, the confirmation of amiibo NFC support via these FCC filings is welcome news for fans and collectors alike.
For ongoing updates and a comprehensive guide to Nintendo Switch 2’s new Joy-Con controllers, stay tuned to Nintendo news outlets for all the latest verified information.
Nintendo Switch 2 Joy-Con Nintendo Switch Nintendo amiibo Switch 2 Switch FCC NFC Amiibo