As we’ve reported previously in the past, Nintendo has a habit of registering patents for all sorts of novel hardware and software concepts. Most of these patents ultimately never see the light of day, but this latest entry has drawn considerable attention online.

This new patent was reported by outlet Gamerant, and is for a dual-screen gaming device similar to the 3DS. What makes this machine different is that it can be split into two piece, one for each screen, and they both can communicate wirelessly. One of these halves also has a touch-screen on the other side, presumably allowing for even more play functionality.

The main reason this patent has attracted so much attention is due to the recent rumors surrounding the Switch’s successor, which is believed to be coming sometime next year. A device similar to this would be just the sort of thing Nintendo would attempt with a follow-up to the Switch, namely adding an additional screen and incorporating elements of the highly successful DS line of systems.

Of course, until Nintendo officially announces the new console, fans should take these new patents with a grain of salt. Stay tuned for more information as it comes.

What do you think? Let us know in the comments.