Cheaper Switch model coming in June, sources say

Nintendo could unveil a new low-cost Switch model at E3 2019, with sales opening later that month.

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Nintendo plans to release a budget-friendly Switch handheld-console model this June, sources tell Bloomberg.

Cheaper Switch model coming in June, sources say | TweakTown.com

The Switch has always been Nintendo's future. The wildly successful handheld-console hybrid is an evolution of Nintendo's hardware history--the Wii, Wii U, and 3DS handheld all led up to the Switch. Now with a new cheaper Switch on the way aimed at replacing the 3DS, the Switch is set to fulfill its destiny as the core center of the company's gaming presence.

Sources tell Bloomberg that the long-rumored Switch Mini or Switch Lite is on the way, and could launch as soon as June of this year to slowly replace the 8 year-old 3DS handheld. No official details on the new system have been confirmed. Analysts predict the system will have certain features shaved off to save money, which could drop the cost to $199, down from the current Switch's $299.

Read Also: Next-gen Switch isn't happening, sources at Nintendo say, only small upgrades

Many think the Switch Lite is to the Switch like the 2DS is to the 3DS. Speculation infers the low-cost Switch will have non-removable JoyCons and a slightly smaller screen, although the core internal specs--like the NVIDIA Tegra X1 chip--should remain the same.

All previous Switch games--both digital and physical--will undoubtedly be compatible with the new cheaper variant. This model will be part of a new Switch family that offers consumers purchase options.

Sources told Nikkei the budget Switch can be docked for home console play, foregoing the possibility of a handheld-only system. The console's dock may also be sold separately to reduce costs.

Nintendo could reveal more info during its fourth quarter earnings report tomorrow April 25, 2019, and will assuredly announce key details during its E3 2019 presentation in June.

NEWS SOURCE:bloomberg.com

Derek joined the TweakTown team in 2015 and has since reviewed and played 1000s of hours of new games. Derek is absorbed with the intersection of technology and gaming, and is always looking forward to new advancements. With over six years in games journalism under his belt, Derek aims to further engage the gaming sector while taking a peek under the tech that powers it. He hopes to one day explore the stars in No Man's Sky with the magic of VR.

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