Nintendo may tweak Switch 2 specs to free up more memory and CPU cores for games

When the final Switch 2 specs surfaced, the amount of memory devoted to the console's OS caused some concern. The handheld boasts larger capacity and faster RAM than the Switch. Sadly, its system hogs a higher percentage of memory. However, according to a developer who frequents Famiboards, Nintendo could free up more resources for Switch 2 games.

It's believed that the Switch 2 utilizes 12GB of LPDDR5X DRAM, divided between two modules. Unfortunately, 3GB of that memory is unavailable for game developers. By contrast, the Switch has 4GB of LPDDR4 SDRAM, but its OS only consumes .8 GB of that memory. Many fans blame GameChat for the disappointing news about Switch 2 specs. The feature enables video chat for up to 12 gamers, but it impacts memory allocation and even frame rates.

The good news is that it appears Nintendo will continue to make changes to the handheld. MattAgain has shared noteworthy information about Switch 2 capabilities in the past. His latest update gives fans hope that the console's memory allocation won't restrict gaming performance. According to the developer, Nintendo aims to reduce the memory used by the console's system from 3GB to 2GB. Additionally, while the OS currently utilizes 2 out of 8 CPU cores, this could fall to one core in the future.

MattAgain revealed that earlier versions of the new console gradually reduced memory and CPU usage. Even after the Switch 2 release date, Nintendo could release firmware updates to optimize performance. The Famiboards user has no indication of when Nintendo will debut these enhancements.

In its current configuration, the console can already run more taxing Switch 2 games smoothly. One of these is Mario Kart World, which allows racers to drive off-track and explore detailed environments.