Qualcomm reportedly plans a Nintendo Switch clone based on Android
- Qualcomm is reportedly making an Android-based console that is similar to the Nintendo Switch.
- It would include detachable controllers and output to a television, and could even come with the Epic Games Store.
- A launch is provisionally planned for the first quarter of 2022 for around 300 US dollars.
Would you like a console like the Nintendo Switch with the flexibility of Android? You could get your wish. On Android police References Qualcomm is developing a Switch-like gaming handheld that can be sold to the public – it wouldn’t just be a reference design like many of the company’s previous mobile devices.
True to the Switch formula, the Qualcomm gaming system has removable Joy-Con controllers that are output to an external display. It would be thicker than a smartphone, but Qualcomm would use the space to offer more processing power and a 6,000 mAh quickly rechargeable battery. At least one version would support 5G, and an SD card slot would allow room for more games.
See also: The best gaming phones
Software would also play an important role. Qualcomm’s gaming device would run a custom version of Android 12 that not only supports the Google Play Store, but also an upcoming Android version of the Epic Games Store. You would have another option for a console tier Fourteen days Experience in motion, in other words.
If the rumor is correct, Qualcomm is hoping to launch its slot machine at around $ 300 in the first quarter of 2022. While this would be competitive with regular Switch prices, the chip giant reportedly has no illusions that it will dwarf Nintendo. Similar to Microsoft’s Surface PCs, the Switch-Alike would ideally encourage partners to explore new hardware concepts.
Qualcomm declined to comment. It’s unclear if this is related to a rumor that Qualcomm partnered with Asus to develop private label gaming phones, although the company has suggested that any collaboration be on reference products only.
A Switch-like gaming handheld from Qualcomm might make sense. Mobile gaming is still popular. People who buy premium phones like the ROG Phone 5 to get a head start on the latest first person shooter. Qualcomm can serve these enthusiasts with a special device that does not reduce battery life and can be used for TikTok or phone calls. Of course, convincing people to adopt this two-device strategy is another thing. When there aren’t any exclusive or optimized games, people may be happy to stick with their phones.
