Nintendo Reportedly Targets to Release Next-Gen Console in 2024

Nintendo is reportedly working on a new console to be launched next year. Several sources have told Video Games Chronicles that development kits for the company's next console have been sent out to key partner studios.

Nintendo Next-Gen Console Plans Could See a Launch in the Second Half of 2024

According to the outlet, multiple sources that knew about Nintendo's next-gen console plans have revealed details about the upcoming console.

The sources noted that the new console could be released during the second half of 2024, and this is to ensure that the company will avoid the kind of shortages seen with the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X and S consoles, having ample stock available from day one.

The Next Nintendo Console is Still Expected to be Portable for Its Players

It was reported that despite specific details on the console remaining safeguarded, those who spoke to VGC indicated that the upcoming Nintendo console would be able to be used in portable mode, which is similar to the Nintendo Switch.

Two sources noted that the upcoming console would be released with an LCD screen and not the more premium OLED screen. It will reportedly help bring down the cost of the device, especially considering the higher storage needed for new games.

Nintendo Switch Still Has Limited Internal Memory at 32GB

As of press time, the Nintendo Switch only comes with 32GB of internal memory, while other games for PlayStation and Xbox already require memories of over 100GB. Like the previous version, the newer Nintendo console would still allow users to play physical games through a cartridge slot.

However, IGN reported that backwards compatibility with Nintendo Switch games remains unclear. As for Nintendo, the company previously noted how it wanted to convert as many of its userbases to the Switch for its next system.

However, third-party publishers have reportedly shared their concerns when it comes to Switch games and their legacy support. It was reported that forcing this could affect the sales of next-gen titles.

Next Nintendo Console Could Launch 'Before Next Spring at the Earliest'

Dr. Serkan Toto, a Tokyo-based industry consultant, told VGC that an upcoming 2024 console launch for the company would make sense. That is because the company has already seen double-digit declines in sales of Switch hardware and software after seven years in the market.

Nintendo earlier said it expects net profit to drop 21% for the current fiscal year as sales of its signature console continue to decline. In May, Nikkei Asia also claimed that they were able to talk to a source close to Nintendo who told them that so far, the company's work with regard to its next console seems to remain smooth.

During that time, it was noted that a product launch wouldn't happen until "before next spring at the earliest."