Nintendo 3rd party dock restrictions

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Background

With the release of Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo added encryption methods to the bottom of the consoles USB C port. Using a new encryption method as well as an encryption chip. The USB C port will communicate with the cable inside the dock, giving it specific instructions on the correct amount of power delivery to the console as well as permissions for video output. This is believed to be intentional, in order to keep the console from connecting to any USB C accessory not given approval by Nintendo, as well as disallowing 3rd party manufacturers from making docks that will work with Switch 2 in the long term, as firmware updates cause these 3rd party docks to become ineffective and unsuable with the console.

Consumer response

Sean Hollister, senior editor at the verge, tested these encryption methods. Using a diagnostic device, Hollister took note of the data being transferred between the Nintendo Switch 2 and the dock that comes with the console. He noticed that the 2 devices communicate and respond with eachother over 30 times before video output is confirmed. This behavior is not observed with most other USB docks, unless they have gotten around this encryption.

The Antank s3 max is a notable example. This 3rd Party dock communicates with the console in a similar manner to the official dock, and in turn, will support video output and power delivery. It is unknown how long the dock will continue to function, as at any time, Nintendo could roll out a firmware update and change the encryption system entirely.