The Nintendo Switch 2 design just got a lot more interesting

There was a time when the Switch 2 was rumoured to feature two screens, along similar lines to the Nintendo DS. Now that we've finally seen the real thing, that's clearly not the case – the official Switch sequel looks remarkable (and somewhat boringly) like the original console. But if a new rumour is to be believed, the Switch 2's design could be more versatile than we thought – with a little help from your smartphone.

Leakers have discovered a Nintendo patent describing an accessory that would allow other devices such as smartphones to connect to the top of the console. Yep, playing DS games on the Switch may no longer be a Warp Pipe dream. (Don't fancy waiting? Check out this awesome Mario Day Nintendo Switch deal.)

A leaked patent spotted by Game Rant describes a magnetic attachment, and specifically details support for smartphones. The obvious application here is for the addition of a second display – and which device had two screens? Yep, the DS. So, if Nintendo keeps being generous with the retro offerings a part of Nintendo Switch Online, perhaps the advent of the Switch 2 could finally see DS games become available on the latest console, along with games for Nintendo64, SNES, Game Boy Advance and more.

With the Switch 2 rumoured for years before Nintendo finally revealed it, we naturally saw tons of weird and wonderful renders of what the device might look like. Compared with these, the final design feels rather by-the-numbers. But details remain scant right now, and it seems Nintendo might have a few tricks up its sleeve to make the Switch 2 stand out. And if lets me play Mario Kart DS, I'll be happy.