Nintendo NX patent suggests cloud computing, AMD processor and speculated details suggest later than 2016 release

Nintendo Signage — Nintendo signage is displayed at the company's booth at the 2014 Electronic Entertainment Expo, known as E3, in Los Angeles, California June 11, 2014. Reuters/Kevork Djansezian

Nintendo has filed a new patent, with clues pointing to the possibility that it is for some of the features coming to the Nintendo NX. The new patent is tagged for a game console that makes use of supplemental computing for better and speedier performance.

Instead of an accessory, however, GamesRadar reported that the supplemental computing device can be done remotely. This could mean that the additional power and speed for the console can be done via Internet access or it could also be a network of devices that passes on power performance remotely to the Nintendo NX.

The report likens this to Microsoft’s Azure. While most of the function of Microsoft’s remote computing feature is limited to stable connections, it has already started to make use of the cloud power in games such as “Crackdown.” The aim is to take off some processing load from the device by using the cloud for more complex computations.

As with any patent, this is more of a possible plan for the Nintendo NX, and not a definitive feature that will come to the console. Until Nintendo announces the full features of the Nintendo NX, there will likely be changes to the company’s plans for the console.

Earlier this year, there have been hints that AMD may be building the processor that will be used for the Nintendo NX. VentureBeat had reported that, apart from the fact that AMD had already been the processor-maker for the likes of the Wii U, it is safe to assume that the technology will also be used for Nintendo’s next gaming console.

Add to this the fact that both the PS4 and Xbox One, the two currently rivalling next-gen consoles in the industry, are already using AMD processors. If the Nintendo NX aims to be in the same tier in competition as the other two, it is very likely that it will make use of a processor that is just as advanced, such as the graphics-focused chip from AMD.

As far as release dates are concerned, famed gaming analyst Michael Pachter has hinted yet again that 2016 may not be the best nor the most feasible time for the Nintendo NX to be released. According to Wii U Daily, given the remaining period between now and the end of 2016, the 18-month period which will be needed to announce the Nintendo NX and create games for it is no longer possible.

Still, Pachter is quick to say that this is just an estimate. He also still considers the possibility that Nintendo can surprise fans and throw in the Nintendo NX sometime next year. But what is certain is that Nintendo will be announcing more details about its upcoming console in 2016.