Home
News
You are here

Gaming-focused Apple TV is a Nintendo Switch-style handheld console: report

By Anam Hamid

Published: Oct 12, 2021, 8:52 AM

6comments

Apple Games

Gaming-focused Apple TV is a Nintendo Switch-style handheld console: report

The long-rumored gaming-focused Apple TV set-top box might turn out to be a Nintendo Switch-style portable hybrid console.

This comes from iDrop News, and while the outlet isn't exactly known for leaking stuff, the report does align with earlier rumors.

According to the publication, the console will run on the Apple A14 Bionic, the chip that powers last year's iPhone 12 range and the iPad Air. Per a separate rumor, the processor might be an enhanced version of the A14.

This contradicts a May rumor from a South Korean site that said Apple was making a new application processor for a portable console with a focus on graphics performance and ray tracing support. Bloomberg had previously also said that Apple was working on an upgraded TV box with a new processor and gaming capabilities.

Nintendo Switch-like Apple gaming console will be premium but not Pro

Back to today's report, the handheld gaming device is expected to have a Siri Remote-inspired design, sharp edges, a plexiglass top, and slimmer dimensions than the current Apple TV. It will be available in a wide variety of hues. The Cupertino giant may also be working on a Joy-Con-like controller to go with the console.

It will primarily be positioned as a Nintendo Switch competitor, but will likely also appeal to some Microsoft and Sony loyalists, given that its chip is expected to lead to superior performance.

The company is apparently done with the development of games - supposedly with help from popular game studios like Ubisoft - that will rival the likes of Breath of the Wild and Mario Odyssey.

That perhaps signals that a launch is not too far off. iDrop News speculates that its price will be in the $449-$549 range.

The hybrid gaming device could also boost other products like Apple's rumored Mixed Reality Headset and Apple Arcade.

Qualcomm is reportedly also developing an Android-powered Nintendo Switch console. According to a sketchy 2019 rumor, Nintendo may be looking to break into the gaming smartphone market.

At the end of the day, it's all great news for consumers who like gaming devices with a small form factor, particularly those who want more than just a gaming-centric Android gaming phone.

View Full Bio

Anam Hamid is a computer scientist turned tech journalist who has a keen interest in the tech world, with a particular focus on smartphones and tablets. She has previously written for Android Headlines and has also been a ghostwriter for several tech and car publications. Anam is not a tech hoarder and believes in using her gadgets for as long as possible. She is concerned about smartphone addiction and its impact on future generations, but she also appreciates the convenience that phones have brought into our lives. Anam is excited about technological advancements like folding screens and under-display sensors, and she often wonders about the future of technology. She values the overall experience of a device more than its individual specs and admires companies that deliver durable, high-quality products. In her free time, Anam enjoys reading, scrolling through Reddit and Instagram, and occasionally refreshing her programming skills through tutorials.