# Linux 7.4 adds Nintendo Switch 2 controller support via Valve contribution

> **Key takeaway:** The Linux 7.4 kernel includes a new HID driver for Nintendo Switch 2 controllers, developed by Valve.

**Published:** 2026-10-23T10:09:10+00:00 
**Source:** Phoronix Benchmarks & Drivers 
**Category:** kernel-os 
**Canonical URL:** https://fosswire.org/news/linux-74-adds-nintendo-switch-2-controller-support-via-valve.html 

## Summary
The Linux 7.4 kernel's HID subsystem updates include preliminary support for Nintendo Switch 2 controllers. Developed by Vicki Pfau on behalf of Valve, the driver uses a split-interface design to handle input, rumble, and configuration across USB and Bluetooth. The update also introduces the hid-pulsar driver for various gaming mice and support for AMD Zen 6 Ryzen SoCs.

## Technical details of the HID updates
- **Nintendo Switch 2 support**: Uses a split-driver design where the main HID interface handles input and rumble, while a secondary configuration interface manages other communications.
- **Controller compatibility**: Initial support covers Joy-Con 2, Pro Controller 2, and GameCube NSO controllers.
- **hid-pulsar driver**: Adds support for Pulsar gaming mice (X2 V2, X2H, X2A, Xlite V3) and compatible models like Kysona M600 ATK and VXE Dragonfly R1 Pro, exposing battery and charging status.
- **AMD Zen 6**: Adds support for new Ryzen SoCs to the AMD Sensor Fusion Hub (SFH) driver.

## Why it matters
Valve's involvement in bringing Switch 2 support to the kernel suggests proactive development for future handheld gaming integration on Linux.