A new Nintendo patent hints at the possible return of DS games to the Switch Online service. Three dual-screen gaming methods were described, fueling excitement among fans.
Nintendo patent filed in April.
Hints at DS games returning.
Three dual-screen gaming options discussed.
Previous DS games on Wii U's Virtual Console.
Touch support was a feature before.
Nothing confirmed for Switch Online yet.
Nintendo has filed a new patent detailing methods for dual-screen gaming on the Switch platform. The patent suggests three display modes and has sparked speculation about Nintendo DS games returning to Nintendo Switch Online in early 2026.
Nintendo’s Dual-Screen Patent Details
The patent, filed in April 2025 and published in October, describes how Nintendo might handle dual-screen gameplay on a future Switch console. It outlines three methods for dual screen use, designed to improve player experience with dual displays. [1][2]
Three Dual-Screen Modes Explained
The patent specifies three modes: Dual Screen mode with a parent and child screen, Single Screen mode featuring picture-in-picture, and Switch Mode which allows switching between screens. These modes offer flexible gameplay options for dual-screen titles. [3][4]
Implications for Nintendo DS Game Library
The Nintendo DS games were available previously through the Wii U Virtual Console with touch controls. Given the patent’s focus on dual screens, many believe it could signal the return of DS games on Switch Online’s classic game library. This would fit Nintendo’s pattern of rolling out classic collections on their platforms. [5][6]
Though the patent is not an official announcement, it aligns with recent expansions like the GameCube and Virtual Boy libraries on Switch Online. Fans anticipate Nintendo may revive DS titles with these new display options soon. [7][8]
Additional Patent Context and Features
The patent includes various technical details and feature outlines applicable to upcoming Nintendo hardware and software innovations. [9][10]
Patent filed in April 2025 and published October 2025
Dual screen methods named Dual Screen, Single Screen, and Switch Mode
Design supports touchscreen interaction similar to the original DS
Could indicate hardware or software updates for Switch or its successor
Previously released DS games on Wii U Virtual Console exceeded 30 titles
Virtual Boy and GameCube games recently added to Switch Online
No official release date provided for DS library return
Patent does not guarantee upcoming software releases
Nintendo’s new patent brings credible evidence that Nintendo DS games might return to Nintendo Switch Online with improved dual-screen support. The company’s continued revamp of its classic game services suggests a likely expansion of available libraries in 2026, enhancing user experience with innovative display modes.
Luca Fischer is a senior technology journalist with more than twelve years of professional experience specializing in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and consumer electronics. He earned his M.S. in Computer Science from Columbia University in 2011, where he developed a strong foundation in data science and network security before transitioning into tech media.Throughout his career, Luca has been recognized for his clear, analytical approach to explaining complex technologies. His in-depth articles explore how AI innovations, privacy frameworks, and next-generation devices impact both industry and society.Luca’s work has appeared across leading digital publications, where he delivers detailed reviews, investigative reports, and feature analyses on major players such as Google, Microsoft, Nvidia, AMD, Intel, OpenAI, Anthropic, and Perplexity AI.Beyond writing, he mentors young journalists entering the AI-tech field and advocates for transparent, ethical technology communication. His goal is to make the future of technology understandable and responsible for everyone.
Nintendo Life is a popular British website and media company that provides news, reviews, features, and videos about all things Nintendo.
It is owned by Hookshot Media and is considered one of the world's largest Nintendo-focused news sites, covering consoles like the Switch and past systems, as well as eShop and retro titles.
Elena Voren is a senior journalist and Tech Section Editor with 8 years of experience focusing on AI ethics, social media impact, and consumer software. She is recognized for interviewing industry leaders and academic experts while clearly distinguishing opinion from evidence-based reporting.She earned her B.A. in Cognitive Science from the University of California, Berkeley (2016), where she studied human-computer interaction, AI, and digital behavior.Elena’s work emphasizes the societal implications of technology, ensuring readers understand both the practical and ethical dimensions of emerging tools. She leads the Tech Section at Faharas NET, supervising coverage on AI, consumer software, digital society, and privacy technologies, while maintaining rigorous editorial standards.Based in Berlin, Germany, Elena provides insightful analyses on technology trends, ethical AI deployment, and the influence of social platforms on modern life.
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