Nintendo's NX Controller Could Have Detachable D-Pad, According To Updated Patents

New updates have been made to Nintendo's patent featuring a controller with detachable parts, further supporting the rumour that the company's upcoming console, codenamed NX, will feature a more freeform design. As reported on Nintendo Life (via Reddit), the updated patent shows that a D-pad input can be easily added or removed from the top right corner of the controller.

Another figure shows that multiple control schemes can be switched in or out, with varying configurations offered. While Nintendo has not confirmed any details about its next gaming platform, the updates do support the previously suggested notion of the NX's portability and flexible design.

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It's worth noting that these images are not necessarily set in stone or even indicative of future designs that come into fruition, and that these could merely be samples.

The patent is dated October 2013 for its first filing, and was published in 2014.

Previously, reports indicated that the NX will feature detachable controllers. The accessory could have buttons, a rotating dial, or other inputs. Last month, rumours surfaced that the NX console itself would be a handheld device that could be docked for use with a television.

The NX was first announced by Nintendo in March 2015, at a press conference. During the announcement, the company described the project as representing a "brand-new concept." This was reiterated earlier this year when Nintendo confirmed a release date for the NX. The console is scheduled for launch in March 2017.