Switch 2 battery swelling could be causing bulging consoles, as Nintendo Support investigates

Despite a successful launch, the Switch 2 battery has produced its share of concerns. The latest problem involves potential swelling, which can affect rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. Several gamers posted evidence of bulging consoles on Reddit and social media. After contacting Nintendo Support, the company told one customer that it was investigating the issue.

Tombyt3 made a Reddit post showing a deformed handheld that's drawing attention. While it can be difficult to notice at first, the console's back panel is no longer even. As reported by Automaton, a Japanese Switch 2 owner shared a similar story where the left side of the casing was rising. The gamer also opened a case with Nintendo Support.

Swollen lithium-ion batteries have plagued other gaming handhelds, like the Sony PSP. The phenomenon is perhaps less common with the original Switch, but there have been instances of its back panel expanding. Even some controllers are not immune to the problem. Battery swelling can occur due to overcharging, even if the Switch 2 has a setting to prevent it. Playing or storing consoles in excessive heat can also lead to damage, and in the worst cases, fires.

What's concerning about the Switch 2 battery swelling is that it's a new console. It's more typical to see older systems that have been recharged repeatedly or left unattended. However, teardowns of the system confirm that the back panels aren't bulging where the battery sits. As a result, a manufacturing error instead could explain the damage. Otherwise, the handheld makes it difficult for users to replace the battery themselves.

Another issue related to the Switch 2 battery is the system's tendency to display inaccurate power levels. Nintendo has already suggested a sequence owners can use to correct the annoyance. Some gamers have also complained about poor battery life, but that's likely not related to hardware failures.