Rumors have been swirling for a while regarding the possibility of a new model for the Nintendo Switch, with some pointing to an improved version of the hardware, while others suggest a cheaper variant instead. Now, Japanese news outlet Nikkei reports that the latter option might actually come true in the near future, even though Nintendo recently said it has no plans for a Switch successor.
According to the report, Nintendo is planning a smaller, "more portable" version of its Switch hybrid console, which is referred to as Nintendo Switch Mini. The information reportedly comes from manufacturing partners and game developers who were informed by Nintendo about the plans. This model is meant to be easier to carry around but it may have limited functionality, though it"s unclear in what way. This revision may arrive as early as mid-2019 as a way to expand the user base of the Switch.
In addition to this new hardware, Nintendo may also be betting on a new subscription service for Switch owners, which would work in a similar fashion to Nintendo Switch Online. This service, set to be launched in 2019, would be aimed at consumers who spend a lot of money on microtransactions. Though details aren"t provided, this could be similar to services such as Gamestash, which let you pay a monthly fee to get access to mobile games without in-app purchases.
Naturally, none of this has officially been announced by Nintendo, but Nikkei has accurately predicted other product launches before. It should be a matter of time before we know for sure if these plans will come to fruition.
Source: Nikkei via NintendoSoup