Nintendo stated there are no plans for other Nintendo Switch models at this time, and denied the OLED model has an increase profit margin.
Bloomberg reported that the with Nintendo Switch OLED model’s $50 USD increase over the standard model, and estimates the new components would cost $10 USD per unit, Nintendo’s profit margin would also increase. A Nintendo spokesperson declined to comment to Bloomberg.
Nintendo later issued a statement to Twitter about the article. Along with stating to both investors and customers that the profit margin had not increased compared to the Nintendo Switch’ regular model, Nintendo once again insisted there are no plans for other models at this time.
“A news report on July 15, 2021(JST) claimed that the profit margin of the Nintendo Switch (OLED Model) would increase compared to the Nintendo Switch. To ensure correct understanding among our investors and customers, we want to make clear that the claim is incorrect.
We also want to clarify that we just announced that Nintendo Switch(OLED Model) will launch in October, 2021, and have no plans for launching any other model at this time.”
Once again it seems those hoping for the rumored Nintendo Switch Pro have been left wanting, and possibly for the last time.
We previously reported on rumors (including from Bloomberg) of a more powerful Nintendo Switch being in production; a so-called “Nintendo Switch Pro” model. Those supposedly in the know claimed this new model would support 4K graphics (via a new NVidia graphics chip and 7-inch screen), and launch early 2021.
Bloomberg and Eurogamer sources also speculated the console may launch September or October 2021, with an announcement prior to E3 2021. This would enable third-parties to show off their games freely, as Nintendo’s own digital showcase would be later during the E3 2021 week. Along with claims of listings going live on June 4th, none of these rumors would come true.
Our own editorial proposed that it was unlikely; due to Nintendo typically focusing on being a lower-priced console, and the shortage of chips meaning higher-end tech would cost more for Nintendo and the consumer.
Nintendo of America President Doug Bowser indirectly denied the existence of the Nintendo Switch Pro; focusing on how Nintendo are “always looking at technology and how technology can enhance gameplay experiences.”
Instead, Nintendo announced the Nintendo Switch OLED model; featuring a 7-inch OLED screen, 64GB of internal storage, an adjustable stand for tabletop mode, enhanced audio for tabletop and handheld play, and a new dock featuring wired LAN support. Nintendo later confirmed that it featured the same processor, and that the new dock could be purchased separately.
As aforementioned shortages of chips, Nintendo’s focus on lower-priced consoles, the effects of the COVID-19 lockdown on the global economy, and shortages of rival next-gen consoles may all add up to Nintendo never producing a Pro model. However, could the constant talks of desires for a more powerful Nintendo Switch force their hand, even if it is to their detriment?
Those hoping for a more powerful portable gaming system are not entirely without luck though. The newly announced Steam Deck, a handheld gaming PC from Valve, drew more than a few comparisons to the phantom Nintendo Switch Pro. A Valve engineer also stated they were confident the system would not suffer the joystick drifting issues that have plagued the Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons.
