Leaked video of Nintendo Switch 2 possibly stolen from Chinese factory focuses on Joy-Cons

With Nintendo rushing production of the Switch 2, a console escaping a factory may have been inevitable. A video on Chinese social media shows individuals examining the handheld. At the start of the footage, viewers see diagnostic information like battery status and options to reboot and shut down the system. The console was likely in the final testing phase before installing retail firmware. Much of the commentary in the video concerns the Switch 2 Joy-Cons and the handheld's design.

The latest Switch 2 leak doesn't reveal many surprises about Nintendo's upcoming handheld. During the brief clip, the handlers seem most fascinated by the detachable Joy-Cons. One person detaches the right controller and explains to the other individual that it's released using a rear-facing button. As a key change to the Switch 2 specs, the controllers are secured using magnets rather than slide rails. However, the subjects in the video note that the console rattles with the Joy-Cons connected.

It's unclear what the people in the leaked video intend to do with the handheld. A January rumor involved a Chinese individual who offered to sell a version of the console to an accessory maker. Any manufacturer with an early Switch 2 sample had an advantage. Nintendo raised the prices of Joy-Cons and other accessories following US tariffs. Consequently, the demand for cheaper alternatives has intensified.

Nintendo reportedly moved some of its production from China to Vietnam to avoid tariffs. By the end of February, over a million consoles may have been waiting in US warehouses. So far, it seems that the units have remained secure ahead of the Switch 2 June 5th release date. Even so, Chinese gamers may be the most desperate to acquire the handheld. Nintendo has paused launch plans in the country due to government regulations.