A close scrutiny of Nintendo's patent filing for Switch console shows that the company may be working towards developing a Virtual Reality headset. The new gadget will be compatible with the Switch console. The headset will likely have a compartment to hold Switch.

According to NeoGAF, Nintendo may emerge as a tough competitor for Samsung and Google. Both companies recently released their VR headsets in the form of Samsung Gear VR and Google Daydream. Nintendo claims that the headset would "enhance the sense of immersion" for the users.

The headset is expected to have either in-built tracking sensors or it may use the sensors on the tablet. However, the patents filed by the company throw up a multitude of possibilities. It is likely that gamers may play games using the console's removable controllers.

A deep study of the patents seems to confirm early rumors that Nintendo Switch may come with a touchscreen. Such touchscreen may be able to sense pressure, touch, and position. The patent mentions that such screens may be capacitive and multi-touch capable.

There is not much information about the HMD accessory. It uses lenses to present a wider viewing angle. It is also possible that HMD may include angular velocity sensor and acceleration for controlling the virtual camera.

The patent also describes using the image of a hand and employing vein pattern to authenticate users. The vein pattern is meant to be captured using the infrared imaging technique. The same technology may also be used for measuring a user's pulse.

However, merely filing a patent does not mean that Nintendo is working on a VR headset. Earlier, Nintendo game designer Shigeru Miyamoto stated that "But it's one that I think that, given the [VR] environment right now, is difficult to bring to market in a way that reaches the broadest audience." Nintendo Switch is scheduled to hit the market in March 2017.