Nintendo is preparing for the highly anticipated launch of the Switch 2 on June 5 by rolling out a major update to its mobile app, now renamed the Nintendo Switch App. This update brings a host of new features designed to enhance the user experience, especially when it comes to sharing in-game moments and connecting with friends.
Seamless Screenshot and Video Sharing
One of the standout improvements is the revamped screenshot and video upload feature. Users can now link their phones to the Switch 2 and wirelessly transfer in-game media directly to the app, either manually or automatically. Unlike the original Switch, which required cumbersome QR code scanning, the new process ensures that screenshots and gameplay clips appear instantly in the app, ready to be saved locally. The app can store up to 100 files for 30 days from upload, automatically removing the oldest files if the limit is reached and they haven't been saved.
Introducing GameChat and Enhanced Social Features
The update also introduces GameChat, Nintendo's new multiplayer voice chat system. Through the app, users will receive notifications for GameChat invites, friends coming online, and friend requests. Friends are now prominently displayed on the app's home screen, making it easier to connect and play together. While these features may be familiar to PlayStation and Xbox users, they represent a significant step forward for Nintendo's online ecosystem, promising a smoother multiplayer experience on Switch 2.
New Tools for Zelda Fans
The app now features a Zelda Notes icon, which will become functional on June 5. This tool is compatible with the Switch 2 editions of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom. Zelda Notes acts as a navigation aid, helping players track down missing Koroks and shrines within their save files. Additional features include sharing Autobuild creations in Tears of the Kingdom, editing in-game photos, and reviewing play records such as enemies defeated and total game overs.
Additional Updates for Switch 2
Nintendo is also making subtle enhancements to its other services in anticipation of the Switch 2 launch. On Nintendo Switch Online, a new rewind feature exclusive to Switch 2 will be added to the N64 game library, along with a CRT filter option. These features, already available for NES and SNES titles, will not be accessible to original Switch owners for N64 games, though the reasons for this remain unclear.
With these updates, Nintendo aims to deliver a more streamlined and connected experience for Switch 2 users, making it easier than ever to share, communicate, and enjoy new adventures with friends.
