Samsung is preparing an improved version of its 8nm semiconductor manufacturing technology that could make a more affordable Nintendo Switch 2 model possible.
The upgraded process, known as 8LPU+, reportedly offers better performance, reduced power consumption, and smaller chip dimensions.
These improvements could benefit Nintendo and NVIDIA, particularly because the existing Switch 2 uses NVIDIA's T239 processor manufactured on Samsung's 8nm process.
However, neither Nintendo nor NVIDIA has announced plans to adopt the new technology or develop a Switch 2 Lite.
The possibility comes after Nintendo reportedly increased Switch 2 pricing in September 2026 amid rising memory and component costs.
Samsung's 8LPU+ Process Promises Better Efficiency
Samsung is expected to present its second generation 8nm process at the International Electron Devices Meeting (IEDM) 2026.
The upgraded manufacturing technology reportedly introduces several improvements over the existing process.
| Improvement | Reported benefit |
|---|---|
| Performance | 12% increase |
| Power consumption | 15% reduction |
| Chip area | 8% smaller |
| I/O area | Approximately 10% smaller |
| Standby leakage | Reduced |
These improvements could help manufacturers develop smaller and more energy efficient devices without moving to an entirely different manufacturing node.
Samsung is reportedly targeting existing 8nm customers and semiconductor designers working on automotive applications.
Since NVIDIA already uses Samsung's manufacturing technology for the Switch 2 processor, the upgraded node could provide a possible option for future hardware revisions.
A Switch 2 Lite Could Benefit From Lower Power Consumption
A hypothetical Nintendo Switch 2 Lite would likely prioritize portability, battery efficiency, and manufacturing costs.
Samsung's reported 15% reduction in power consumption could help improve battery life or reduce cooling requirements.
Meanwhile, the smaller chip area could allow more processors to fit on a silicon wafer, potentially lowering production costs.
However, manufacturing savings would not necessarily translate into an equivalent reduction in retail pricing.
Memory, storage, displays, and other components would continue to influence the final cost.
Nintendo Has Not Announced a Switch 2 Lite
Nintendo has not confirmed that a cheaper Switch 2 model is in development.
The company has introduced a hardware revision featuring a removable battery, but that change does not represent a major processor upgrade.
Samsung's upcoming process improvements could offer technical advantages for future handheld hardware.
Nevertheless, the connection to a possible Switch 2 Lite remains speculative.
Until Nintendo confirms another model, the upgraded 8nm technology should be viewed as a potential manufacturing option rather than evidence of an upcoming console.
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