Since I picked up my Steam Deck, my Nintendo Switch has mostly become a device for reliving Mario and Zelda adventures. The Steam Deck mastered the Switch’s signature portability while surpassing it with a broader game library and fluid performance. It seamlessly allows me to switch between playing on my desktop and handheld, making each gaming session feel like a continuation of the last.

However, the impending release of the Nintendo Switch 2 shakes up this equation. Not only does the Switch 2 promise the familiar, family-friendly Nintendo experience that captivates younger audiences, it has the potential to woo even the most dedicated handheld PC enthusiasts. With a robust offering of exclusive titles utilizing the system’s innovative detachable Joy-Cons and backward compatibility, the expectations are sky-high. The original Switch launched in 2017 amidst a sparse catalog, but fast-forward to 2023, and the Switch 2 arrives equipped with one of the most expansive game libraries available, rivaling even smartphones and traditional PCs.

So what must the handheld PC market do to emerge from the sheer shadow cast by the Switch 2? Following insights gathered from CES 2025, the world’s premier tech exhibition, it looks like handheld consoles might need to collaborate more effectively to make a dent in Nintendo's dominance.

1. Revamping the Operating System:

Consumers want a reliable gaming experience where games can be accessed instantly upon powering the device. While the Steam Deck has made strides in achieving a user-friendly interface, many Windows-based handhelds are struggling. Lenovo's commitment to deliver a third-party handheld with Valve's SteamOS is a significant step forward. Discussions at CES indicate that Microsoft plans to streamline its Windows experience on handheld devices, aiming to blend the best of Xbox with Windows. These initiatives are crucial because current handhelds often suffer from clunky interfaces and unreliable game launches—eras of bloatware and poor navigation that simply can't compete with Nintendo's allure.

2. Enhancing Display Technology:

The future of handheld gaming hinges upon screen quality. For optimal performance, handheld devices should embrace 1080p-or-lower HDR OLED displays with variable refresh rates. Surprisingly, many manufacturers prioritize higher resolution screens at the cost of battery life and performance. This trend hampers an otherwise enjoyable gaming experience. By standardizing the use of HDR displays, handhelds could emulate the stunning visuals often associated with home consoles, allowing games to burst with life and color.

3. Next-Gen Chips and Battery Technology:

AMD's handheld chipsets dominate the scene, but they have yet to optimize for portability, leaving room for competitors. While there are hints about AMD's Z2 series potentially improving power efficiency, the handheld market would benefit from even more innovation. Major players in chip manufacturing should come together to develop custom chips designed specifically for handheld gaming, increasing both performance and battery life without compromising on size or weight.

4. Competitive Pricing Strategies:

Price remains a formidable barrier for PC handhelds, which often start at upwards of $600, considerably higher than Nintendo’s offerings. The Switch debuted in 2017 at $299, with the Switch 2 anticipated to be similarly priced. For handheld gaming to become mainstream, manufacturers must explore economies of scale and possibly adopt loss leaders similar to how consoles enter the market. A concerted industry effort led by giants like Valve, Microsoft, or even Sony could foster an ecosystem of compelling, lower-cost handheld devices that could draw customers away from Nintendo and capture a substantial market share.

In conclusion, the handheld gaming industry stands on the brink of a revolution. The Switch 2 may offer a formidable challenge, but with strategic shifts in operating systems, display technology, chip designs, and pricing, there is a bright future for handheld PCs. Now is the time for industry players to unite to redefine the landscape of portable gaming. The potential is vast, and it might just be the next big leap forward in the gaming universe!