NDA-busting renders of the much-anticipated and rumored Nintendo Switch 2 console appeared online late last year—reports suggested that a member of the Xiahongshu forum was involved in this dramatic leak. The source seemingly had access to a 3D CAD model—possibly procured from a manufacturing partner. Industry insiders believed that top Nintendo brass were incensed by the pre-Christmas 2024 leaks. Around mid-January, an official unveiling of the next-gen gaming handheld arrived online, courtesy of a relatively short teaser video. Early April public showcases are on the calendar; press outlets and regular punters will be participating in hands-on experiences (invite-only) at venues across North America, Europe, Asia and Australia. The flow of early 2025 Switch successor leaks have seemingly slowed down, but renewed activity on Reddit points to early samples emerging via black market outlets.

The aforementioned Xiahongshu forum member is reportedly considering a purchase of pre-release Switch 2 units—previous boasts have indicated that they already own one example. Screenshots of alleged interactions between the seller and potential client were uploaded to Chinese discussion boards, and then shared on the Nintendo Switch 2 Subreddit. The anonymous black market dealer reckons that stock will be available in the near future—claiming by "next week"—with an asking price of 290,000 RMB per package (~$39,780 USD). This steep demand—allegedly—grants early access to the core console tablet, Joy-Con controllers, and dock. Online community debates have produced several theories, regarding the leaker's motivations. Given their history of selling CAD models to accessory makers; this working relationship could develop into a—presumably more profitable—supply of actual working hardware.