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Difference between revisions of "Nintendo Switch"

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|successor=N/A
 
|successor=N/A
 
|media=Nintendo Switch [[Game Card]], digital download
 
|media=Nintendo Switch [[Game Card]], digital download
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|memory=32GB internal memory, {{wp|Secure Digital|microSD card}}<ref name="memory">[http://nintendoeverything.com/switch-supports-up-to-256-gb-microsd-cards/ Switch supports up to 256 GB microSD cards]. Nintendo Everything (January 13, 2017). Retrieved January 13, 2017.</ref>
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|memory=32GB internal memory, {{wp|SD card|microSD/SDHC/SDXC card}} (up to 2TB)<ref name="memory">[http://nintendoeverything.com/switch-supports-up-to-256-gb-microsd-cards/ Switch supports up to 256 GB microSD cards]. Nintendo Everything (January 13, 2017). Retrieved January 13, 2017.</ref>
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|cpu={{wp|Nvidia}} {{wp|Tegra}}<ref name="nvidia">[https://blogs.nvidia.com/blog/2016/10/20/nintendo-switch/ NVIDIA Technology Powers New Home Gaming System, Nintendo Switch]. Nvidia (October 20, 2016). Retrieved October 20, 2016.</ref>
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|cpu={{wp|Nvidia}} {{wp|Tegra#Tegra X1|Tegra X1}} {{wp|System on a chip|SoC}}<ref name="nvidia">[https://blogs.nvidia.com/blog/2016/10/20/nintendo-switch/ NVIDIA Technology Powers New Home Gaming System, Nintendo Switch]. Nvidia (October 20, 2016). Retrieved October 20, 2016.</ref><ref name="TI launch">[https://www.techinsights.com/blog/nintendo-switch-teardown Nintendo Switch Teardown]. Tech Insights (March 3, 2017). Retrieved June 3, 2021.</ref>
 
|model=HAC-001
 
|model=HAC-001
 
|games=
 
|games=
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|best_games=''[[Mario Kart 8 Deluxe]]'' ({{hover|15.02 million|As of December 31, 2018}})<ref>[https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/en/finance/software/index.html Top Selling Title Sales Units]. Nintendo. Retrieved March 31, 2017.</ref>
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|best_games=''[[Mario Kart 8 Deluxe]]'' <small>({{tt|48.41 million|As of September 30, 2022}})</small><ref>[https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/en/finance/software/index.html Top Selling Title Sales Units]. Nintendo. Retrieved March 31, 2017.</ref>
 
|launch_games='''NA:''' 10<br>'''JP:''' 20<br>'''PAL:''' 19<br>'''KOR:''' 12
 
|launch_games='''NA:''' 10<br>'''JP:''' 20<br>'''PAL:''' 19<br>'''KOR:''' 12
 
|last=N/A
 
|last=N/A
 
|input=[[Joy-Con]], [[Nintendo Switch Pro Controller]]
 
|input=[[Joy-Con]], [[Nintendo Switch Pro Controller]]
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|backwards=N/A
 
|connects=N/A
 
|connects=N/A
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|backwards=N/A
 
−
|forwards=N/A
 
 
|services=[[Nintendo eShop]], [[Nintendo Account]], [[Nintendo Switch Online]]
 
|services=[[Nintendo eShop]], [[Nintendo Account]], [[Nintendo Switch Online]]
 
|launch='''WW:''' March 3, 2017<ref name="Presentation">[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ntzz8O7SpWs Nintendo Switch Presentation 2017]. Nintendo (YouTube; January 12, 2017). Retrieved January 13, 2017.</ref><br>'''KOR:''' December 1, 2017<ref name="Release KOR">[http://www.nintendo.co.kr/PR/press_list.php?cPage1=1&cPage2=1&idx=274&press_div=P Switch and Play 게임 생활을 보다 액티브하게! 한국닌텐도, 「Nintendo Switch™」 12월 1일 국내 정식 발매 결정]. Nintendo of Korea (September 20, 2017). Retrieved September 20, 2017.</ref>
 
|launch='''WW:''' March 3, 2017<ref name="Presentation">[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ntzz8O7SpWs Nintendo Switch Presentation 2017]. Nintendo (YouTube; January 12, 2017). Retrieved January 13, 2017.</ref><br>'''KOR:''' December 1, 2017<ref name="Release KOR">[http://www.nintendo.co.kr/PR/press_list.php?cPage1=1&cPage2=1&idx=274&press_div=P Switch and Play 게임 생활을 보다 액티브하게! 한국닌텐도, 「Nintendo Switch™」 12월 1일 국내 정식 발매 결정]. Nintendo of Korea (September 20, 2017). Retrieved September 20, 2017.</ref>
 
|discontinue=N/A
 
|discontinue=N/A
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|sold='''WW:''' {{hover|32.27 million|As of December 31, 2018}}<ref name="Historical Sales">[https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/en/finance/hard_soft/index.html Dedicated Video Game Sales Units]. Nintendo. Retrieved June 30, 2017.</ref><br>'''NA:''' {{hover|12.94 million|As of December 31, 2018}}<ref name="Fiscal year 3/2018">[https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2019/190131e.pdf Consolidated Results for the Nine Months Ended December 31, 2017 and 2018]. Nintendo (January 31, 2019). Retrieved February 9, 2019.</ref><br>'''JP:''' {{hover|7.74 million|As of December 31, 2018}}<ref name="Fiscal year 3/2018"/>
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|sold='''WW:''' {{hover|114.33 million|As of September 30, 2022}}<ref>[https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/en/finance/hard_soft/index.html Dedicated Video Game Sales Units]. Nintendo. Retrieved June 30, 2017.</ref><br>'''NA:''' {{hover|44.59 million|As of September 30, 2022}}<ref name="Fiscal year Q2/2022">[https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2022/221108e.pdf Consolidated Results for the Six Months Ended September 30, 2021 and 2022]. Nintendo (November 8, 2022). Retrieved December 26, 2022.</ref><br>'''JP:''' {{hover|26.96 million|As of September 30, 2022}}<ref name="Fiscal year Q2/2022"/><br>'''EU:''' {{hover|29.29 million|As of September 30, 2022}}<ref name="Fiscal year Q2/2022"/>
 
|colorscheme=Nintendo Switch
 
|colorscheme=Nintendo Switch
 
}}
 
}}
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==Production==
 
==Production==
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Nintendo started to work on concepts for its next system following the release of the Wii U in late 2012<ref name="JN">[http://www.japanesenintendo.com/post/168891059724 Nintendo talk about the origins of the Switch concept]. Japanese Nintendo (December 24, 2017). Retrieved December 24, 2017.</ref>, with the system concept being finalized and development starting in late 2013.<ref name="JN"/><ref name="WSJ">[http://www.wsj.com/articles/nintendo-to-gamers-try-staring-at-each-other-not-the-screen-1484560118 Nintendo to Gamers: Try Staring at Each Other, Not the Screen]. The Wall Street Journal (January 16, 2017). Retrieved January 16, 2017.</ref><ref name="Bloomberg">[https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2016-10-28/nintendo-s-big-switch-q-a-with-president-tatsumi-kimishima Nintendo's Big Switch: Q&A With President Tatsumi Kimishima]. Bloomberg (October 28, 2016). Retrieved October 28, 2016.</ref> [[Satoru Iwata]], [[Tatsumi Kimishima]], [[Genyo Takeda]], and [[Shigeru Miyamoto]] created a strategy to revitalize Nintendo's business, including entering the mobile market, creating a new dedicated game platform, and "maximizing" the company's intellectual property.<ref name="Bloomberg"/> According to Tatsumi Kimishima, development began with the question, "What kind of new experience can we create?"<ref name="Bloomberg"/> The system designers initially struggled to come up with a concept for the system, until looking back at the company's history and seeing that "[Nintendo's] really been an amusement provider."<ref name="WSJ"/> Afterward, the concept of playing games anywhere with anyone came about.<ref name="WSJ"/> With the overall concept set, many of the basic features of the system came about quickly afterward; according to designer [[Yoshiaki Koizumi]], the concept of having two controllers that could attach to the console was one of the first decisions to be made.<ref name="WSJ"/> The name "Switch" refers not only to the console's ability to swap between portable and TV modes, but also to the idea that it will be "a ‘switch’ that will flip, and change the way people experience entertainment in their daily lives."<ref>[http://nintendoeverything.com/nintendo-on-switchs-name-goal-with-the-announcement-trailer/ Nintendo on Switch’s name, goal with the announcement trailer]. Nintendo Everything (December 6, 2016). Retrieved December 7, 2016.</ref>
+
Nintendo began working on concepts for its next system following the release of the Wii U in late 2012<ref name="JN">[http://www.japanesenintendo.com/post/168891059724 Nintendo talk about the origins of the Switch concept]. Japanese Nintendo (December 24, 2017). Retrieved December 24, 2017.</ref>, with the system concept being finalized and development starting in late 2013.<ref name="JN"/><ref name="WSJ">[http://www.wsj.com/articles/nintendo-to-gamers-try-staring-at-each-other-not-the-screen-1484560118 Nintendo to Gamers: Try Staring at Each Other, Not the Screen]. The Wall Street Journal (January 16, 2017). Retrieved January 16, 2017.</ref><ref name="Bloomberg">[https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2016-10-28/nintendo-s-big-switch-q-a-with-president-tatsumi-kimishima Nintendo's Big Switch: Q&A With President Tatsumi Kimishima]. Bloomberg (October 28, 2016). Retrieved October 28, 2016.</ref> [[Satoru Iwata]], [[Tatsumi Kimishima]], [[Genyo Takeda]], and [[Shigeru Miyamoto]] created a strategy to revitalize Nintendo's business, including entering the mobile market, creating a new dedicated game platform, and "maximizing" the company's intellectual property.<ref name="Bloomberg"/> According to Tatsumi Kimishima, development began with the question, "What kind of new experience can we create?"<ref name="Bloomberg"/> The system designers initially struggled to come up with a concept for the system, until looking back at the company's history and seeing that "[Nintendo's] really been an amusement provider."<ref name="WSJ"/> Afterward, the concept of playing games anywhere with anyone came about.<ref name="WSJ"/> With the overall concept set, many of the basic features of the system came about quickly afterward; according to designer [[Yoshiaki Koizumi]], the concept of having two controllers that could attach to the console was one of the first decisions to be made.<ref name="WSJ"/> The name "Switch" refers not only to the console's ability to swap between portable and TV modes, but also to the idea that it will be "a ‘switch’ that will flip, and change the way people experience entertainment in their daily lives."<ref>[http://nintendoeverything.com/nintendo-on-switchs-name-goal-with-the-announcement-trailer/ Nintendo on Switch's name, goal with the announcement trailer]. Nintendo Everything (December 6, 2016). Retrieved December 7, 2016.</ref>
  
 
To show that Nintendo would continue in the dedicated gaming hardware business after announcing a partnership with [[DeNA]] to enter the mobile market, Satoru Iwata announced that a new Nintendo platform "with a brand-new concept" was in development during an investor's briefing in March 2015, referred to under the codename "NX".<ref name="reveal">[https://www.nintendo.co.jp/corporate/release/en/2015/150317/03.html March 17, Wed. 2015 Presentation Title]. Nintendo (March 17, 2015). Retrieved June 16, 2015.</ref> During a later investor's meeting in May 2015, Iwata stated that the company would not give specific details or reveal the NX until 2016.<ref>[http://www.gamespot.com/articles/no-nx-reveal-at-e3-nintendo-says/1100-6427236/ No NX Reveal at E3, Nintendo Says]. GameSpot (May 11, 2015). Retrieved October 22, 2016.</ref> Succeeding Nintendo president Tatsumi Kimishima would later state that the new hardware would not be a successor to either the [[Wii U]] or the [[Nintendo 3DS]] family<ref name="successor">[http://www.ign.com/articles/2016/05/16/nintendo-president-nx-is-not-the-successor-to-the-wii-u-nor-to-the-3ds Nintendo President: NX Is Not the Successor "to the Wii U nor to the 3DS"]. IGN (May 16, 2016). Retrieved June 16, 2016.</ref>, and reconfirmed that the device is based around a new concept.<ref name="successor"/><ref name="reveal"/> [[The Pokémon Company]] president [[Tsunekazu Ishihara]] also stated that the console "is trying to change what it means to be a home console device or a hand-held device".<ref>[http://www.nintendolife.com/news/2016/09/nintendo_nx_will_change_the_concept_of_home_console_and_handheld_gaming_says_pokemon_company_president Nintendo NX Will "Change The Concept" Of Home Console And Handheld Gaming, Says Pokémon Company President]. Nintendo Life (September 20, 2016). Retrieved September 20, 2016.</ref> During an investor's meeting in April 2016, Kimishima stated that the hardware would be priced to not sell at a loss at launch<ref>[https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/en/library/events/160428qa/02.html Financial Results Briefing for Fiscal Year Ended March 2016 - Q & A]. Nintendo (April 28, 2016). Retrieved October 24, 2016.</ref>, later stating in July that the company plans on the Nintendo Switch making up for declining Wii U sales.<ref>[http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/2016-07-07-wii-u-was-expected-to-sell-100-million-units Wii U was expected to sell 100 million units]. GamesIndustry.biz (July 7, 2016). Retrieved January 10, 2017.</ref>
 
To show that Nintendo would continue in the dedicated gaming hardware business after announcing a partnership with [[DeNA]] to enter the mobile market, Satoru Iwata announced that a new Nintendo platform "with a brand-new concept" was in development during an investor's briefing in March 2015, referred to under the codename "NX".<ref name="reveal">[https://www.nintendo.co.jp/corporate/release/en/2015/150317/03.html March 17, Wed. 2015 Presentation Title]. Nintendo (March 17, 2015). Retrieved June 16, 2015.</ref> During a later investor's meeting in May 2015, Iwata stated that the company would not give specific details or reveal the NX until 2016.<ref>[http://www.gamespot.com/articles/no-nx-reveal-at-e3-nintendo-says/1100-6427236/ No NX Reveal at E3, Nintendo Says]. GameSpot (May 11, 2015). Retrieved October 22, 2016.</ref> Succeeding Nintendo president Tatsumi Kimishima would later state that the new hardware would not be a successor to either the [[Wii U]] or the [[Nintendo 3DS]] family<ref name="successor">[http://www.ign.com/articles/2016/05/16/nintendo-president-nx-is-not-the-successor-to-the-wii-u-nor-to-the-3ds Nintendo President: NX Is Not the Successor "to the Wii U nor to the 3DS"]. IGN (May 16, 2016). Retrieved June 16, 2016.</ref>, and reconfirmed that the device is based around a new concept.<ref name="successor"/><ref name="reveal"/> [[The Pokémon Company]] president [[Tsunekazu Ishihara]] also stated that the console "is trying to change what it means to be a home console device or a hand-held device".<ref>[http://www.nintendolife.com/news/2016/09/nintendo_nx_will_change_the_concept_of_home_console_and_handheld_gaming_says_pokemon_company_president Nintendo NX Will "Change The Concept" Of Home Console And Handheld Gaming, Says Pokémon Company President]. Nintendo Life (September 20, 2016). Retrieved September 20, 2016.</ref> During an investor's meeting in April 2016, Kimishima stated that the hardware would be priced to not sell at a loss at launch<ref>[https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/en/library/events/160428qa/02.html Financial Results Briefing for Fiscal Year Ended March 2016 - Q & A]. Nintendo (April 28, 2016). Retrieved October 24, 2016.</ref>, later stating in July that the company plans on the Nintendo Switch making up for declining Wii U sales.<ref>[http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/2016-07-07-wii-u-was-expected-to-sell-100-million-units Wii U was expected to sell 100 million units]. GamesIndustry.biz (July 7, 2016). Retrieved January 10, 2017.</ref>
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The console was finally revealed as the Nintendo Switch on October 20, 2016.<ref name="pr"/> When asked if the system would impact sales of the Nintendo 3DS due to its portable nature, a Nintendo representative answered that, "Nintendo Switch is a home gaming system first and foremost."<ref>[http://www.polygon.com/2016/10/20/13347910/nintendo-switch-home-gaming-system Nintendo: Switch is a home gaming system ‘first and foremost’]. Polygon (October 20, 2016). Retrieved October 21, 2016.</ref> The company has also announced a "Nintendo Switch Presentation 2017" event on January 12, 2017, in Tokyo (livestreamed worldwide) to reveal more about the system, including its launch date, launch titles, and price, as well as announcing a number of hands-on events worldwide to take place pre-launch.<ref>[http://www.polygon.com/2016/10/26/13431366/nintendo-switch-presentation-2017-livestream-date Nintendo Switch event to reveal further details in mid-January]. Polygon (October 26, 2016). Retrieved December 9, 2016.</ref>
 
The console was finally revealed as the Nintendo Switch on October 20, 2016.<ref name="pr"/> When asked if the system would impact sales of the Nintendo 3DS due to its portable nature, a Nintendo representative answered that, "Nintendo Switch is a home gaming system first and foremost."<ref>[http://www.polygon.com/2016/10/20/13347910/nintendo-switch-home-gaming-system Nintendo: Switch is a home gaming system ‘first and foremost’]. Polygon (October 20, 2016). Retrieved October 21, 2016.</ref> The company has also announced a "Nintendo Switch Presentation 2017" event on January 12, 2017, in Tokyo (livestreamed worldwide) to reveal more about the system, including its launch date, launch titles, and price, as well as announcing a number of hands-on events worldwide to take place pre-launch.<ref>[http://www.polygon.com/2016/10/26/13431366/nintendo-switch-presentation-2017-livestream-date Nintendo Switch event to reveal further details in mid-January]. Polygon (October 26, 2016). Retrieved December 9, 2016.</ref>
  
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At an investor's briefing in February 2017, Tatsumi Kimishima stated that two million units would be shipped for the console's launch.<ref name="2/1/17 IR">[https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2017/170201_2e.pdf Nine Months Financial Results Briefing for Fiscal Year Ending March 2017]. Nintendo (January 31, 2017). Retrieved January 31, 2017.</ref> Reggie Fils-Amie also said that the Nintendo Switch will not face any supply issues, which happened with the [[Nintendo Entertainment System: NES Classic Edition]].<ref>[https://www.wired.com/2017/01/reggie-fils-aime-nintendo-interview/ Nintendo’s Boss Promises the Switch Won’t Have the NES Classic’s Supply Issues]. Wired (January 13, 2017). Retrieved February 27, 2017.</ref> For the system's launch month, 2.74 million systems were shipped worldwide.<ref name="IR 4/28/17">[https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2017/170428_2e.pdf Financial Results Briefing for Fiscal Year Ending March 2017]. Nintendo (April 28, 2017). Retrieved April 28, 2017.</ref> According to a Nintendo spokesperson, Nintendo shipped several systems via plane (a costlier measure by up to an additional ¥5,000/US$45 per unit) in order to more quickly meet demand at launch.<ref>[http://www.nintendolife.com/news/2017/05/nintendo_using_costly_air_freight_to_meet_demand_for_switch_faster Nintendo Using Costly Air Freight To Meet Demand For Switch Faster]. Nintendo Life (May 1, 2017). Retrieved May 1, 2017.</ref> Following the launch, Kimishima said in the company's March 2017 fiscal year briefing that the company planned to increase production and improve supply for the holiday season, and that they expected to ship over 10 million Nintendo Switch units and 35 million games by March 2018.<ref name="IR 4/28/17"/> However, in investors' materials released on October 30, Nintendo announced that it had revised its sales forecasts for the console, with plans to ship over 14 million hardware units and over 50 million games by March 2018.<ref>[https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2017/171031e.pdf Outline of consolidated financial results for the six months ended September 30, 2017 and consolidated earnings forecast for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2018]. Nintendo (October 30, 2017). Retrieved November 9, 2017.</ref>
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At an investor's briefing in February 2017, Tatsumi Kimishima stated that two million units would be shipped for the console's launch.<ref name="2/1/17 IR">[https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2017/170201_2e.pdf Nine Months Financial Results Briefing for Fiscal Year Ending March 2017]. Nintendo (January 31, 2017). Retrieved January 31, 2017.</ref> Reggie Fils-Amie also said that the Nintendo Switch will not face any supply issues, which happened with the [[Nintendo Entertainment System: NES Classic Edition]].<ref>[https://www.wired.com/2017/01/reggie-fils-aime-nintendo-interview/ Nintendo's Boss Promises the Switch Won’t Have the NES Classic's Supply Issues]. Wired (January 13, 2017). Retrieved February 27, 2017.</ref> For the system's launch month, 2.74 million systems were shipped worldwide.<ref name="IR 4/28/17">[https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2017/170428_2e.pdf Financial Results Briefing for Fiscal Year Ending March 2017]. Nintendo (April 28, 2017). Retrieved April 28, 2017.</ref> According to a Nintendo spokesperson, Nintendo shipped several systems via plane (a costlier measure by up to an additional ¥5,000/US$45 per unit) in order to more quickly meet demand at launch.<ref>[http://www.nintendolife.com/news/2017/05/nintendo_using_costly_air_freight_to_meet_demand_for_switch_faster Nintendo Using Costly Air Freight To Meet Demand For Switch Faster]. Nintendo Life (May 1, 2017). Retrieved May 1, 2017.</ref> Following the launch, Kimishima said in the company's March 2017 fiscal year briefing that the company planned to increase production and improve supply for the holiday season, and that they expected to ship over 10 million Nintendo Switch units and 35 million games by March 2018.<ref name="IR 4/28/17"/> However, in investors' materials released on October 30, Nintendo announced that it had revised its sales forecasts for the console, with plans to ship over 14 million hardware units and over 50 million games by March 2018.<ref>[https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2017/171031e.pdf Outline of consolidated financial results for the six months ended September 30, 2017 and consolidated earnings forecast for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2018]. Nintendo (October 30, 2017). Retrieved November 9, 2017.</ref>
  
 
Kimishima has stated that he expects the console's lifetime sales to match those of the Wii (which sold over 101 million units).<ref>[http://www.gamasutra.com/view/news/290668/Nintendo_president_expects_Switch_sales_to_match_the_Wii.php Nintendo president expects Switch sales to match the Wii]. Gamasutra (February 2, 2017). Retrieved February 27, 2017.</ref>
 
Kimishima has stated that he expects the console's lifetime sales to match those of the Wii (which sold over 101 million units).<ref>[http://www.gamasutra.com/view/news/290668/Nintendo_president_expects_Switch_sales_to_match_the_Wii.php Nintendo president expects Switch sales to match the Wii]. Gamasutra (February 2, 2017). Retrieved February 27, 2017.</ref>
  
 
==Features==
 
==Features==
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The main feature of the Nintendo Switch is its ability to be played both at home and on the go<ref name="pr"/>, immediately transitioning from displaying on the television to the system's built-in screen.<ref name="first look"/> The Nintendo Switch itself is a tablet-like device featuring a 6.2-inch capacitive multi-touch screen with a display resolution of 720p.<ref name="features">[http://www.nintendo.com/switch/features/ Features] on the official Nintendo Switch website. Retrieved January 13, 2017.</ref> The device has a power button, volume buttons, a 3.5mm headphone port, a covered [[Game Card]] slot, and on the back of the device is a kickstand<ref name="first look"/> with a microSD card slot underneath.<ref name="features"/> The system's battery life is officially stated to be between 2.5&ndash;6.5 hours, varying by software and usage<ref name="Presentation"/>; Nintendo have commented that the system is designed to allow users to play for as long as possible "comfortably".<ref name="bc">[http://www.perfectly-nintendo.com/nintendo-switch-nintendo-confirms-lack-retro-compatiblity-note-battery-life/ Nintendo Switch: Nintendo confirms lack of retro-compatiblity… for physical media, note about battery life]. Perfectly Nintendo (October 21, 2016). Retrieved October 21, 2016.</ref> The system can be recharged using a {{wp|USB#USB Type-C|USB Type-C}} cable<ref name="features"/>, the type used for the system's AC Adapter (HAC-002). Finally, the system's screen uses {{wp|Immersion Corporation}}'s Touch Sense technology, providing haptic feedback when the touch screen is used.<ref>[http://gonintendo.com/stories/271845-immersion-and-nintendo-enter-into-agreement-to-bring-immersion-s Immersion and Nintendo Enter into Agreement to Bring Immersion's TouchSense Technology to the Nintendo Switch System]. GoNintendo (January 13, 2017). Retrieved January 15, 2017.</ref>
+
The main feature of the Nintendo Switch is its ability to be played both as a dedicated home console and as handheld device<ref name="pr"/>, immediately transitioning from displaying on the television to the system's built-in screen.<ref name="first look"/> The Nintendo Switch itself is a tablet-like device featuring a 6.2-inch capacitive multi-touch screen with a maximum display resolution of 720p.<ref name="features">[https://www.nintendo.com/switch/tech-specs/ Technical specs] on the official Nintendo Switch website. Retrieved June 3, 2021.</ref> This screen uses {{wp|Immersion Corporation}}'s "TouchSense" technology, providing haptic feedback when the touch screen is used.<ref>[https://ir.immersion.com/news-releases/news-release-details/immersion-and-nintendo-enter-agreement-bring-immersions Immersion and Nintendo Enter into Agreement to Bring Immersion's TouchSense Technology to the Nintendo Switch System]. Immersion Corporation (January 13, 2017). Retrieved June 3, 2021.</ref> On the top of the device is a power button, volume buttons, a 3.5mm headphone port, a covered [[Game Card]] slot, and on the back of the device is a kickstand<ref name="first look"/> with a microSD card slot underneath.<ref name="features"/> On the sides of the system are rails that connect the Joy-Con controllers to the system.
  
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The Nintendo Switch has three "play styles". In "TV Mode", the Nintendo Switch is connected to the Nintendo Switch Dock (HAC-007), allowing players to play on a television screen.<ref name="Presentation"/> The dock features two USB ports on the front, and an LED indicating when the system is outputting to the television.<ref name="features"/> Opening up the back of the dock reveals an additional USB port, an {{wp|HDMI}} port, and an AC Adapter port for charging the system while it is docked. The dock's USB ports will support {{wp|USB#USB 2.0|USB 2.0}} at launch, while {{wp|USB#USB 3.0|USB 3.0}} support will be added in a system update.<ref>[https://www.nintendo.co.uk/Nintendo-Switch/Specifications/Specifications-1176277.html#2 Specifications] on the official UK Nintendo Switch website. Retrieved January 27, 2017.</ref> In "Tabletop Mode", the Nintendo Switch is stood up using its kickstand while the Joy-Con are used separately, either for single-player or multiplayer.<ref name="Presentation"/> Finally, in "Handheld Mode", the Joy-Con are attached to both sides of the Nintendo Switch in a form factor similar to the [[Wii U GamePad]].<ref name="Presentation"/> Up to eight systems can be connected for local play.<ref name="Presentation"/>
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The system is powered by a rechargeable 3.7 {{wp|volt}}, 4310{{wp|Ampere hour|mAh}}/16{{wp|Kilowatt-hour|Wh}} {{wp|lithium-ion battery}} (HAC-003).<ref name="ifixit launch">[https://www.ifixit.com/Teardown/Nintendo+Switch+Teardown/78263 Nintendo Switch Teardown]. iFixit (March 3, 2017). Retrieved June 3, 2021.</ref> The Nintendo Switch's battery life when removed from the dock is officially stated to range from 2.5 to 6.5 hours, varying by software and usage<ref name="Presentation"/>; Nintendo have commented that the system is designed to allow users to play for as long as possible "comfortably".<ref name="bc">[http://www.perfectly-nintendo.com/nintendo-switch-nintendo-confirms-lack-retro-compatiblity-note-battery-life/ Nintendo Switch: Nintendo confirms lack of retro-compatiblity… for physical media, note about battery life]. Perfectly Nintendo (October 21, 2016). Retrieved October 21, 2016.</ref> The system can be recharged using a {{wp|USB-C|USB Type-C}} cable<ref name="features"/>, the type used for the system's AC Adapter (HAC-002).
  
−
The Nintendo Switch will not feature [[Miiverse]], nor will it have [[StreetPass]] capabilities.<ref>[http://venturebeat.com/2017/01/13/nintendo-switch-wont-have-miiverse-or-streetpass/ Nintendo Switch won’t have Miiverse or StreetPass]. VentureBeat (January 13, 2017). Retrieved January 15, 2017.</ref> Using the Joy-Con L's Capture button, the player can capture a screenshot of their gameplay, which automatically saves the shot to the system's album. From the album, players are able to edit the image by adding text with a variety of colors, positions, and sizes, and post it onto social media sites.<ref name="Kotaku Q&A">[http://kotaku.com/nintendo-answers-and-avoids-our-switch-questions-1791402953 Nintendo Answers (And Avoids) Our Switch Questions]. Kotaku (January 19, 2017). Retrieved January 19, 2017.</ref> Images can also be saved to an SD card or deleted.<ref>[https://www.vg247.com/2017/02/23/heres-how-you-can-take-and-share-screenshots-on-the-nintendo-switch/ Here’s how you can take and share screenshots on the Nintendo Switch]. VG247 (February 23, 2017). Retrieved February 23, 2017.</ref> Up to 1,000 images can be saved onto the system's internal memory, while up to 10,000 can be saved to a microSD card.<ref>[https://www.reddit.com/r/NintendoSwitch/comments/5zwopz/i_hit_my_screenshot_limit/ I hit my screenshot limit...] r/NintendoSwitch (March 17, 2017). Retrieved March 19, 2017.</ref><ref>[http://nintendoeverything.com/switch-has-a-set-number-of-screenshots-that-can-be-held-on-the-system-and-microsd-card/ Switch has a set number of screenshots that can be held on the system and microSD card]. Nintendo Everything (March 19, 2017). Retrieved March 19, 2017.</ref> The ability to capture and post video footage is planned for a future update.<ref name="Presentation"/>
+
The Nintendo Switch has three "play styles". In "TV Mode", the Nintendo Switch is connected to the Nintendo Switch Dock (HAC-007), allowing players to play on a television screen.<ref name="Presentation"/> The dock features two {{wp|USB#USB 2.0|USB 2.0}} ports on the front, and an LED indicating when the system is outputting to the television.<ref name="features"/> Opening up the back of the dock reveals an additional {{wp|USB 3.0}} port, an {{wp|HDMI}} port, and a USB Type-C port to connect the AC Adapter; the AC Adapter must be connected to the dock in order for the system to output to a television. When docked, the system is capable of up to 1080p video output.<ref name="features"/> In "Tabletop Mode", the Nintendo Switch is stood up on a surface using its kickstand while the Joy-Con are used separately, either for single-player or multiplayer.<ref name="Presentation"/> Finally, in "Handheld Mode", the Joy-Con are attached to both sides of the Nintendo Switch in a form factor similar to the [[Wii U GamePad]].<ref name="Presentation"/> Up to eight systems can be connected for local play.<ref name="Presentation"/>
 +
 
 +
Using the Capture button, players can capture a screenshot of their gameplay by pressing the button, or capture video clips of up to 30 seconds in length by holding the button, which can be accessed in the album menu. From the album, players are able to edit images by adding text with a variety of colors, positions, and sizes, and share it on social media sites.<ref name="Kotaku Q&A">[http://kotaku.com/nintendo-answers-and-avoids-our-switch-questions-1791402953 Nintendo Answers (And Avoids) Our Switch Questions]. Kotaku (January 19, 2017). Retrieved January 19, 2017.</ref> Videos can also be edited by trimming the length from the beginning and ending; edited videos are saved separately from the original. Images and videos can also be saved to an SD card or deleted.<ref>[https://www.vg247.com/2017/02/23/heres-how-you-can-take-and-share-screenshots-on-the-nintendo-switch/ Here's how you can take and share screenshots on the Nintendo Switch]. VG247 (February 23, 2017). Retrieved February 23, 2017.</ref> Up to 1,000 images can be saved onto the system's internal memory, while up to 10,000 can be saved to a microSD card.<ref>[https://www.reddit.com/r/NintendoSwitch/comments/5zwopz/i_hit_my_screenshot_limit/ I hit my screenshot limit...] r/NintendoSwitch (March 17, 2017). Retrieved March 19, 2017.</ref><ref>[http://nintendoeverything.com/switch-has-a-set-number-of-screenshots-that-can-be-held-on-the-system-and-microsd-card/ Switch has a set number of screenshots that can be held on the system and microSD card]. Nintendo Everything (March 19, 2017). Retrieved March 19, 2017.</ref> Additionally, up to 100 videos can be saved to the system's internal memory, and up to 1,000 can be saved to a microSD card.<ref>[https://www.reddit.com/r/NintendoSwitch/comments/db2xmk/there_is_a_limit_to_how_many_videos_you_can_save/ There is a limit to how many videos you can save. 100 on internal memory, and 1000 on a MicroSD card.] r/NintendoSwitch (September 29, 2019). Retrieved December 26, 2022.</ref>
  
 
The system is not backwards compatible with controllers and accessories with any previous systems. However, compatibility with some controllers may be considered for future updates.<ref name="Kotaku Q&A"/>
 
The system is not backwards compatible with controllers and accessories with any previous systems. However, compatibility with some controllers may be considered for future updates.<ref name="Kotaku Q&A"/>
Line 54: Line 55:
 
===System software===
 
===System software===
 
[[File:Nintendo Switch HOME Menu.jpg|thumb|250px|The Nintendo Switch HOME Menu.]]
 
[[File:Nintendo Switch HOME Menu.jpg|thumb|250px|The Nintendo Switch HOME Menu.]]
−
The Nintendo Switch HOME Menu displays a lineup of the most recently played software, while an "All Software" option appears at the end of the list when more than twelve pieces of software have been downloaded.<ref>[http://www.nintendolife.com/news/2017/03/video_yep_when_you_buy_loads_of_games_the_nintendo_switch_has_an_extra_menu Video: Yep, When You Buy Loads of Games the Nintendo Switch Has An Extra Menu]. Nintendo Life (March 17, 2017). Retrieved March 25, 2017.</ref> At the bottom of the menu are six options: News, the [[Nintendo eShop]], the Album, the Controllers menu for controller settings, the system settings, and the sleep mode button. When starting game software or the Nintendo eShop, the player selects which account to play the game using.
+
The Nintendo Switch HOME Menu displays a lineup of the user's most recently played software, ending with an "All Software" option that appears at the end of the list when more than twelve pieces of software have been downloaded.<ref>[http://www.nintendolife.com/news/2017/03/video_yep_when_you_buy_loads_of_games_the_nintendo_switch_has_an_extra_menu Video: Yep, When You Buy Loads of Games the Nintendo Switch Has An Extra Menu]. Nintendo Life (March 17, 2017). Retrieved March 25, 2017.</ref> At the bottom of the menu are six options: News, the [[Nintendo eShop]], the Album, the Controllers menu for controller settings, the system settings, and the sleep mode button. When starting game software or the Nintendo eShop, the player is able to select which account is accessing the software.
  
 
At the top of the screen are a list of user icons, which allow players to view their profile and gameplay, view their friends list, add friends, and adjust user settings.
 
At the top of the screen are a list of user icons, which allow players to view their profile and gameplay, view their friends list, add friends, and adjust user settings.
  
 
===Memory===
 
===Memory===
−
The Nintendo Switch features 32 GB of internal {{wp|Flash memory|NAND memory}}.<ref name="features"/><ref name="memory"/><ref name="Kotaku Q&A"/> The total memory for the system can be expanded with microSD cards of up to 2 TB in size<ref name="memory"/><ref name="hard drive">[http://www.gamereactor.eu/news/497423/Nintendo+Switchs+storage+could+be+expanded+with+USB+drives/ Nintendo Switch's storage could be expanded with USB drives]. Gamereactor UK (January 13, 2017). Retrieved January 14, 2017.</ref> While the system will not support USB-based storage options at launch, the company is considering whether or not to add this feature in a future update, as being unable to take USB save data on the go conflicts with the portable aspect of the system.<ref name="hard drive"/><ref name="Kotaku Q&A"/> While using a microSD card, game save data will be saved to the system's internal memory, while redownloadable data (digital games, updates, downloadable content, etc.) will be saved to the microSD card.<ref name="Kotaku Q&A"/>
+
The Nintendo Switch features 32 GB of internal {{wp|Flash memory|NAND memory}}.<ref name="features"/><ref name="memory"/><ref name="Kotaku Q&A"/> The total storage capacity for the system can be expanded with a compatible microSD, microSDHC, or microSDXC card up to 2TB in size.<ref name="memory"/><ref name="hard drive">[http://www.gamereactor.eu/news/497423/Nintendo+Switchs+storage+could+be+expanded+with+USB+drives/ Nintendo Switch's storage could be expanded with USB drives]. Gamereactor UK (January 13, 2017). Retrieved January 14, 2017.</ref> SD cards can be used to store downloaded software, software updates and add-on content, and captured screenshots and video; save data is stored on the system memory and cannot be transferred to an SD card.<ref name="Kotaku Q&A"/><ref name="SD FAQ">[https://en-americas-support.nintendo.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/22481/p/897 microSD Card FAQ]. Nintendo Support. Retrieved June 3, 2021.</ref>
 +
 
 +
The system does not support USB-based storage options such as external hard drives, as being unable to take USB save data on the go conflicts with the portable aspect of the system. However, the company has stated that they have considered whether or not to add this feature in a future update.<ref name="hard drive"/><ref name="Kotaku Q&A"/>
  
 
===Online===
 
===Online===
 
{{main|Nintendo Switch Online}}
 
{{main|Nintendo Switch Online}}
−
Rather than Nintendo Network, the system uses a new online service titled Nintendo Switch Online, a paid subscription-based online service based around the [[Nintendo Account]] service.<ref name="online">[http://www.nintendo.com/switch/online-service/ Nintendo Switch online service] on the official Nintendo Switch website. Retrieved January 22, 2017.</ref> Under the paid subscription service, users are able to play online with each other, as well as use the online lobby and voice chat application on smart devices.<ref name="online"/> Subscribers also are given exclusive Nintendo eShop deals, as well as access to Classic Games Selections, allowing users to download and play classic games with added online play.<ref name="online"/> Online play will be free until 2018, while a free version of the voice chat and lobby app was released in summer 2017.<ref name="online"/>
+
Rather than Nintendo Network, the system uses a new online service titled Nintendo Switch Online, a paid subscription-based online service based around the [[Nintendo Account]] service.<ref name="online">[http://www.nintendo.com/switch/online-service/ Nintendo Switch online service] on the official Nintendo Switch website. Retrieved January 22, 2017.</ref> Under the paid subscription service, users are able to play online with each other, as well as use the online lobby and voice chat application on smart devices.<ref name="online"/> Subscribers are also given exclusive offers and deals, access to the Save Data Cloud to upload and retrieve save data, and access to the Nintendo Switch Online - Nintendo Entertainment System and Super Nintendo Entertainment System applications, allowing users to play classic games with added online play.<ref name="online"/> Online play was initially available for free until 2018, while a free version of the voice chat and lobby app was released in summer 2017.<ref name="online"/>
  
 
Other internet-based services, such as the Nintendo eShop, sharing images, and adding and managing friends can be accessed without requiring a paid subscription; however, a Nintendo Account is still required to access any online features.<ref name="online"/> The Nintendo eShop region available to the user depends on the country they have selected for their Nintendo Account.<ref name="Kotaku Q&A"/>
 
Other internet-based services, such as the Nintendo eShop, sharing images, and adding and managing friends can be accessed without requiring a paid subscription; however, a Nintendo Account is still required to access any online features.<ref name="online"/> The Nintendo eShop region available to the user depends on the country they have selected for their Nintendo Account.<ref name="Kotaku Q&A"/>
  
 
===System specs===
 
===System specs===
−
Although the device's full specifications have not been revealed, it is known that the system is powered by a custom, "high-efficiency scalable" {{wp|Nvidia}} {{wp|Tegra}} processor. The system uses an Nvidia GPU "based on the same architecture as the world’s top-performing {{wp|GeForce}} gaming graphics cards", and a brand-new "NVN" API "built specifically to bring lightweight, fast gaming to the masses."<ref name="nvidia"/> According to Nvidia CEO Jen-Hsun Huang, the Nintendo Switch GPU is similar to those found in the {{wp|PlayStation 4}}, {{wp|Xbox One}}, and modern PCs.<ref>[https://mynintendonews.com/2016/11/16/nvidia-ceo-thinks-that-ps4-xbox-one-and-pc-ports-on-switch-will-be-simple-due-to-tegra-chip/ Nvidia CEO Thinks That PS4, Xbox One, and PC Ports on Switch Will Be Simple Due To Tegra Chip]. My Nintendo News (November 16, 2016). Retrieved November 16, 2016.</ref>
+
The Nintendo Switch uses an {{wp|Nvidia}} {{wp|Tegra|Tegra X1}} {{wp|system on a chip}}, featuring a CPU powered by {{wp|ARM Cortex-A57}} cores and four {{wp|ARM Cortex-A53}} cores, and a GM20B {{wp|Maxwell (microarchitecture)|Maxwell}} GPU core.<ref name="TI launch"/><ref name="ifixit launch"/> Nvidia would only state before launch that the system was powered by a custom, "high-efficiency scalable" Tegra processor, with a GPU "based on the same architecture as the world's top-performing {{wp|GeForce}} gaming graphics cards", and a custom "NVN" API "built specifically to bring lightweight, fast gaming to the masses."<ref name="nvidia"/> The system features 4GB of {{wp|LPDDR#LP-DDR4|LPDDR4}} RAM.<ref name="ifixit launch"/>
  
 
==Games==
 
==Games==
Line 74: Line 77:
 
The Nintendo Switch is the first Nintendo console after the [[Nintendo GameCube]] to not use a variant of the [[Game Disc]] format for physical releases, instead opting for the [[Game Card]] format similar to those used with Nintendo's handheld devices since the [[Nintendo DS]].<ref name="site">[http://www.nintendo.com/switch Nintendo Switch - Official Website - Nintendo's New Video Game System]. Nintendo. Retrieved October 20, 2016.</ref> Basic Game Cards are said to be able to hold 16 GB, and are non-rewriteable.<ref name="hard drive"/> In addition, the Nintendo Switch is the first Nintendo home console to be region free, allowing users who purchase a game in another region to play that copy of the game on any Nintendo Switch system.<ref name="Presentation"/>
 
The Nintendo Switch is the first Nintendo console after the [[Nintendo GameCube]] to not use a variant of the [[Game Disc]] format for physical releases, instead opting for the [[Game Card]] format similar to those used with Nintendo's handheld devices since the [[Nintendo DS]].<ref name="site">[http://www.nintendo.com/switch Nintendo Switch - Official Website - Nintendo's New Video Game System]. Nintendo. Retrieved October 20, 2016.</ref> Basic Game Cards are said to be able to hold 16 GB, and are non-rewriteable.<ref name="hard drive"/> In addition, the Nintendo Switch is the first Nintendo home console to be region free, allowing users who purchase a game in another region to play that copy of the game on any Nintendo Switch system.<ref name="Presentation"/>
  
−
In Japan, the hardware launched with twenty titles, of which nine were released at retail, while the other eleven were released digitally on the Nintendo eShop. In other territories, the system launched with five retail titles. In North America, five games were released on the Nintendo eShop at launch for a total of ten games at launch, while in Europe fourteen titles were released for a total of nineteen games. According to Nintendo, over 100 games for the system are currently in development.<ref name="2/1/17 IR"/> For the system's South Korean release, twelve games will be available at launch.<ref name="Release KOR"/>
+
In Japan, the hardware launched with twenty titles, of which nine were released at retail, while the other eleven were released digitally on the Nintendo eShop. In other territories, the system launched with five retail titles. In North America, five games were released on the Nintendo eShop at launch for a total of ten games at launch, while in Europe fourteen titles were released for a total of nineteen games. For the system's South Korean release, twelve games were available at launch.<ref name="Release KOR"/>
  
 
{| class="wikitable" width="75%"
 
{| class="wikitable" width="75%"
Line 99: Line 102:
  
 
The Nintendo Switch is not backwards compatible with games for any previous systems.<ref name="bc"/><ref name="Kotaku Q&A"/>
 
The Nintendo Switch is not backwards compatible with games for any previous systems.<ref name="bc"/><ref name="Kotaku Q&A"/>
−
 
−
The Nintendo Switch will feature a [[Virtual Console]] service, though it will not be available at launch.<ref>[http://www.nintendolife.com/news/2017/02/virtual_console_will_not_be_ready_for_nintendo_switch_launch Virtual Console Will Not Be Ready For Nintendo Switch Launch]. Nintendo Life (February 23, 2017). Retrieved February 23, 2017.</ref>
 
  
 
==Controllers and accessories==
 
==Controllers and accessories==
 
===Joy-Con===
 
===Joy-Con===
 
{{main|Joy-Con}}
 
{{main|Joy-Con}}
−
The [[Joy-Con]] (Joy-Con L and Joy-Con R) are the main controllers for the Nintendo Switch. They can either be attached to the Nintendo Switch on both sides of the system, detached from the system to use without holding the screen or as two individual controllers, or attached to the Joy-Con Grip for a form factor more similar to a standard controller.<ref name="first look"/> Both Joy-Con feature an analog stick, four face buttons (the d-pad on Joy-Con L and the standard face buttons on Joy-Con R), standard shoulder buttons and triggers, and a pair of "SL" and "SR" shoulder buttons on the rail.<ref name="features"/> Joy-Con L also features a Minus button and a Capture button<ref name="features"/><ref name="Presentation"/>, while Joy-Con R has a Plus button, a Power button, and NFC functionality.<ref name="features"/><ref name="Presentation"/>
+
The [[Joy-Con]] (Joy-Con (L) and Joy-Con (R)) are the primary controllers for the Nintendo Switch. They can either be attached to the Nintendo Switch on both sides of the system, detached from the system to use without holding the screen or as two individual controllers, or attached to the Joy-Con Grip for a form factor more similar to a standard controller.<ref name="first look"/> Both Joy-Con feature an analog stick, four face buttons (the d-pad on Joy-Con L and the standard face buttons on Joy-Con R), standard shoulder buttons and triggers, and a pair of "SL" and "SR" shoulder buttons on the rail.<ref name="features"/> Joy-Con L also features a Minus button and a Capture button<ref name="features"/><ref name="Presentation"/>, while Joy-Con R has a Plus button, a Home button, and NFC functionality.<ref name="features"/><ref name="Presentation"/>
  
 
===Nintendo Switch Pro Controller===
 
===Nintendo Switch Pro Controller===
Line 113: Line 114:
 
===amiibo===
 
===amiibo===
 
{{main|amiibo}}
 
{{main|amiibo}}
−
amiibo are compatible with the Nintendo Switch. Both the Joy-Con L and Nintendo Switch Pro Controller feature a built-in NFC reader/writer.<ref name="Presentation"/>
+
amiibo are compatible with the Nintendo Switch. Both the right Joy-Con and Nintendo Switch Pro Controller feature a built-in NFC touchpoint.<ref name="Presentation"/>
  
 
===Joy-Con Wheel===
 
===Joy-Con Wheel===
Line 125: Line 126:
 
===Adjustable Charging Stand===
 
===Adjustable Charging Stand===
 
{{main|Adjustable Charging Stand}}
 
{{main|Adjustable Charging Stand}}
−
The Adjustable Charging Stand is an external stand and charging station for the Nintendo Switch. The device plugs into the system using the charging port, and includes a port to plug in the AC Adapter and features an adjustable stand to change the angle of the system.<ref>[https://www.nintendo.com/whatsnew/detail/nintendo-announces-new-adjustable-charging-stand-for-nintendo-switch Nintendo announces new adjustable charging stand for Nintendo Switch]. Nintendo (May 9, 2018). Retrieved May 9, 2018.</ref>
+
The Adjustable Charging Stand is an external stand and charging station for the Nintendo Switch. The device plugs into the system using the charging port, and includes a port to plug in the AC Adapter and an adjustable stand to change the viewing angle of the system.<ref>[https://www.nintendo.com/whatsnew/detail/nintendo-announces-new-adjustable-charging-stand-for-nintendo-switch Nintendo announces new adjustable charging stand for Nintendo Switch]. Nintendo (May 9, 2018). Retrieved May 9, 2018.</ref>
 +
 
 +
===Nintendo Labo===
 +
{{main|Nintendo Labo}}
 +
Nintendo Labo is a line of cardboard accessories designed to interact with the Nintendo Switch. The first Nintendo Labo kits launched in April 2018. Each kit features a set of do-it-yourself projects known as "Toy-Con" that must be assembled, and dedicated software featuring games that utilize the console and Toy-Con in different ways.
 +
 
 +
Following the release of the Nintendo Labo VR Kit, a number of other games also received updates to add compatibility with the Toy-Con VR Goggles.
 +
 
 +
===Ring-Con and Leg Strap===
 +
{{main|Ring-Con and Leg Strap}}
 +
The Ring-Con and Leg Strap are a set of accessories released alongside ''[[Ring Fit Adventure]]'' as the primary controllers for the game. The accessories are utilized by attaching the Joy-Con to them, and are used in-game to perform a variety of exercises and movements.
 
{{-}}
 
{{-}}
  
 
==System updates==
 
==System updates==
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
{| class="wikitable"
−
! align="center" {{html5}}|Version Number
+
! Version Number
 
! Date Released
 
! Date Released
 
! Description
 
! Description
 
|-
 
|-
−
| align="center" {{html5}}|2.0.0
+
| style="text-align:center" |2.0.0
 
| March 2, 2017
 
| March 2, 2017
−
| Allows players to access the console's online features, adds the ability to register friends through friend codes<ref>[http://www.polygon.com/2017/3/2/14789000/nintendo-switch-day-one-update-download-speed Nintendo Switch day-one update takes less than a minute to download]. Polygon (March 2, 2017). Retrieved March 2, 2017.</ref>, allows the console to connect to Wi-Fi hotspots that require authentication.<ref>[http://nintendoeverything.com/what-to-expect-from-switchs-day-one-update/ What to expect from Switch’s day one update]. Nintendo Everything (February 25, 2017). Retrieved February 25, 2017.</ref>
+
| Allows players to access the console's online features, adds the ability to register friends through friend codes<ref>[http://www.polygon.com/2017/3/2/14789000/nintendo-switch-day-one-update-download-speed Nintendo Switch day-one update takes less than a minute to download]. Polygon (March 2, 2017). Retrieved March 2, 2017.</ref>, allows the console to connect to Wi-Fi hotspots that require authentication.<ref>[http://nintendoeverything.com/what-to-expect-from-switchs-day-one-update/ What to expect from Switch's day one update]. Nintendo Everything (February 25, 2017). Retrieved February 25, 2017.</ref>
 
|-
 
|-
−
|align="center" {{html5}}|2.1.0<ref>[http://en-americas-support.nintendo.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/22525/ Nintendo Switch System Updates and Change History]. Nintendo Support. Retrieved March 27, 2017.</ref>
+
|style="text-align:center"|2.1.0<ref>[http://en-americas-support.nintendo.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/22525/ Nintendo Switch System Updates and Change History]. Nintendo Support. Retrieved March 27, 2017.</ref>
 
|March 22, 2017
 
|March 22, 2017
 
|System stability improvements.
 
|System stability improvements.
 
|-
 
|-
−
|align="center" {{html5}}|2.2.0<ref>[http://nintendoeverything.com/switch-firmware-version-2-2-0-now-available/ Switch firmware version 2.2.0 now available]. Nintendo Everything (April 17, 2017). Retrieved April 17, 2017.</ref>
+
|style="text-align:center"|2.2.0<ref>[http://nintendoeverything.com/switch-firmware-version-2-2-0-now-available/ Switch firmware version 2.2.0 now available]. Nintendo Everything (April 17, 2017). Retrieved April 17, 2017.</ref>
 
|April 17, 2017
 
|April 17, 2017
 
|System stability improvements.
 
|System stability improvements.
 
|-
 
|-
−
|align="center" {{html5}}|2.3.0<ref>[http://gonintendo.com/stories/280271-switch-firmware-update-2-3-0-available Switch - Firmware update 2.3.0 available]. GoNintendo (May 15, 2017). Retrieved May 15, 2017.</ref>
+
|style="text-align:center"|2.3.0<ref>[http://gonintendo.com/stories/280271-switch-firmware-update-2-3-0-available Switch - Firmware update 2.3.0 available]. GoNintendo (May 15, 2017). Retrieved May 15, 2017.</ref>
 
|May 15, 2017
 
|May 15, 2017
 
|System stability improvements.
 
|System stability improvements.
 
|-
 
|-
−
|align="center" {{html5}}|3.0.0<ref>[http://www.nintendolife.com/news/2017/06/nintendo_switch_os_version_3_0_0_is_now_live Nintendo Switch OS Version 3.0.0 Is Now Live]. Nintendo Life (June 19, 2017). Retrieved July 3, 2017.</ref>
+
|style="text-align:center"|3.0.0<ref>[http://www.nintendolife.com/news/2017/06/nintendo_switch_os_version_3_0_0_is_now_live Nintendo Switch OS Version 3.0.0 Is Now Live]. Nintendo Life (June 19, 2017). Retrieved July 3, 2017.</ref>
 
|June 19, 2017
 
|June 19, 2017
 
|Allows users to register channels in News to receive news on specific games, allows users to add friends from their Nintendo 3DS and Wii U friends lists, allows users to receive notifications when friends are online, adds the ability to find paired and connected controllers using rumble, allows users to change the user icon order on the main menu, adds additional user icons, adds the ability to adjust the system volume from quick settings, allows users to adjust the maximum volume while using headphones, adds display color changes, allows users to use a Nintendo Switch Pro Controller with wired connection over USB, allows users to update controller firmware, adds a prompt to delete software data if there is insufficient storage space on the console.
 
|Allows users to register channels in News to receive news on specific games, allows users to add friends from their Nintendo 3DS and Wii U friends lists, allows users to receive notifications when friends are online, adds the ability to find paired and connected controllers using rumble, allows users to change the user icon order on the main menu, adds additional user icons, adds the ability to adjust the system volume from quick settings, allows users to adjust the maximum volume while using headphones, adds display color changes, allows users to use a Nintendo Switch Pro Controller with wired connection over USB, allows users to update controller firmware, adds a prompt to delete software data if there is insufficient storage space on the console.
 
|-
 
|-
−
|align="center" {{html5}}|3.0.1<ref>[http://www.nintendolife.com/news/2017/08/switch_firmware_update_3_0_1_is_live_fixes_battery_charge_indicator_issue Switch Firmware Update 3.0.1 Is Live, Fixes Battery Charge Indicator Issue]. Nintendo Life (August 1, 2017). Retrieved August 2, 2017.</ref>
+
|style="text-align:center"|3.0.1<ref>[http://www.nintendolife.com/news/2017/08/switch_firmware_update_3_0_1_is_live_fixes_battery_charge_indicator_issue Switch Firmware Update 3.0.1 Is Live, Fixes Battery Charge Indicator Issue]. Nintendo Life (August 1, 2017). Retrieved August 2, 2017.</ref>
 
|July 31, 2017
 
|July 31, 2017
 
|Fixes issues with the battery percentage display.
 
|Fixes issues with the battery percentage display.
 
|-
 
|-
−
|align="center" {{html5}}|3.0.2<ref>[http://www.nintendolife.com/news/2017/09/nintendo_switch_os_version_3_0_2_is_now_live]. Nintendo Life (September 6, 2017). Retrieved September 6, 2017.</ref>
+
|style="text-align:center"|3.0.2<ref>[http://www.nintendolife.com/news/2017/09/nintendo_switch_os_version_3_0_2_is_now_live]. Nintendo Life (September 6, 2017). Retrieved September 6, 2017.</ref>
 
|September 5, 2017
 
|September 5, 2017
 
|Added online features in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia and Peru, system stability improvements.
 
|Added online features in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia and Peru, system stability improvements.
 
|-
 
|-
−
|align="center" {{html5}}|4.0.0
+
|style="text-align:center"|4.0.0
 
|October 18, 2017
 
|October 18, 2017
 
|Adds the ability to capture video clips of gameplay in compatible games, adds new user icons, adds the ability to transfer user and save data to another Nintendo Switch, adds the ability to pre-purchase games on the Nintendo eShop if available, updates to the News tab, allows users to update software by matching their software version with other local users, changes to internet connection specifications.
 
|Adds the ability to capture video clips of gameplay in compatible games, adds new user icons, adds the ability to transfer user and save data to another Nintendo Switch, adds the ability to pre-purchase games on the Nintendo eShop if available, updates to the News tab, allows users to update software by matching their software version with other local users, changes to internet connection specifications.
 
|-
 
|-
−
|align="center" {{html5}}|4.0.1
+
|style="text-align:center"|4.0.1
 
|October 25, 2017
 
|October 25, 2017
 
|Changes HDMI connection specifications to match version 3.0.2 to fix video and audio issues.
 
|Changes HDMI connection specifications to match version 3.0.2 to fix video and audio issues.
 
|-
 
|-
−
|align="center" {{html5}}|4.1.0
+
|style="text-align:center"|4.1.0
 
|December 4, 2017
 
|December 4, 2017
 
|Fixes an issue causing motion controls to respond incorrectly in compatible software.
 
|Fixes an issue causing motion controls to respond incorrectly in compatible software.
 +
|-
 +
|style="text-align:center"|5.0.0
 +
|March 12, 2018
 +
|Added ability to add friends from Facebook and Twitter accounts linked to the user's Nintendo Account. Added 24 user icons from ''ARMS'' and ''Kirby''. Made purchases from PC or smart device start downloading sooner. Added ability to filter news by whether it has been read and by channel. Changed default entry method for Parental Controls PIN from on-screen number pad to Control Stick and buttons. Videos in the album from games restricted by Parental Controls will now be restricted depending on settings. Added ability to whitelist games using the Nintendo Switch Parental Controls app. Added notifications for when pre-purchased software is ready. Nintendo Switch Pro Controller grip colors are now shown in the Controllers menu. There were also general system stability improvements, including fixing an issue with displaying Play Activity.<ref name="support">https://en-americas-support.nintendo.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/43314</ref>
 +
|-
 +
|style="text-align:center"|5.0.1
 +
|March 26, 2018
 +
|General system stability improvements.<ref name="support"/>
 +
|-
 +
|style="text-align:center"|5.0.2
 +
|April 16, 2018
 +
|General system stability improvements, including fixing an issue with motion controls and an issue with friends' user icons not displaying.<ref name="support"/>
 +
|-
 +
|style="text-align:center"|5.1.0
 +
|May 30. 2018
 +
|General system stability improvements.<ref name="support"/>
 +
|-
 +
|style="text-align:center"|6.0.0
 +
|September 18, 2018
 +
|Added Save Data Cloud. Added ability to share up to 4 Album screenshots to social media. Added 6 new Captain Toad user icons. The term "active console" was renamed to "primary console" in the eShop. Displayed news articles will now be affected by parental control restrictions. Removed ability to unlink Nintendo Accounts from user. General system stability improvements, including improving compatibility for a licensed controller.<ref name="support"/>
 +
|-
 +
|style="text-align:center"|6.0.1
 +
|October 8, 2018
 +
|General system stability improvements, including fixing an issue with incorrect speeds being displayed in the internet connection test and an issue with motion controls for licensed controllers.<ref name="support"/>
 +
|-
 +
|style="text-align:center"|6.1.0
 +
|October 29, 2018
 +
|General system stability improvements, including fixing an issue with some games not recognizing Nintendo Switch Online memberships.<ref name="support"/>
 +
|-
 +
|style="text-align:center"|6.2.0
 +
|November 19, 2018
 +
|General system stability improvements.<ref name="support"/>
 +
|-
 +
|style="text-align:center"|7.0.0
 +
|January 28, 2019
 +
|Added 6 new ''New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe'' user icons. Added support for Chinese (Simplified), Chinese (Traditional), and Korean. General system stability improvements.<ref name="support"/>
 +
|-
 +
|style="text-align:center"|7.0.1
 +
|February 18, 2019
 +
|General system stability improvements, including fixing an issue with ''Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu!'' and ''Pokémon: Let's Go, Eevee!'' not connecting to ''Pokémon GO'' after closing the game.<ref name="support"/>
 +
|-
 +
|style="text-align:center"|8.0.0
 +
|April 15, 2019
 +
|Added ability to sort software. Added a "View All Available News" option. Added 15 new user icons from ''Splatoon 2'' and ''Yoshi’s Crafted World''. Added ability to transfer save data for individual games between consoles. Added a zoom feature. Added option to prevent the console from waking when disconnecting an AC adapter. Added ability to restrict VR with Parental Controls. Added Hong Kong, Taiwan, and South Korea regions. Renamed "Save Data Cloud Backup" to "Save Data Cloud" and "Transfer Your User and Save Data" to "Transfer Your User Data". General system stability improvements.<ref name="support"/>
 +
|-
 +
|style="text-align:center"|8.0.1
 +
|April 23, 2019
 +
|General system stability improvements.<ref name="support"/>
 +
|-
 +
|style="text-align:center"|8.1.0
 +
|June 17, 2019
 +
|General system stability improvements.<ref name="support"/>
 +
|-
 +
|style="text-align:center"|9.0.0
 +
|September 9, 2019
 +
|Added search feature to News Channel. Added ability to check in using a QR Code. Added Alarm Notifications. Added options for touch screen sensitivity. Added ability to disable system button input for the Nintendo Switch Lite. Added Online Play Invites to the user page. General system stability improvements, including fixing an issue where ''Fire Emblem: Three Houses'' won't start.<ref name="support"/>
 +
|-
 +
|style="text-align:center"|9.0.1
 +
|September 30, 2019
 +
|General system stability improvements, including fixing an issue which caused errors during play, and fixed an issue where an instruction to remove Joy-Con was displayed when setting up a Nintendo Switch Lite.<ref name="support"/>
 +
|-
 +
|style="text-align:center"|9.1.0
 +
|December 4, 2019
 +
|General system stability improvements, including fixing an issue with the color animation when connecting a Joy-Con to the Nintendo Switch.<ref name="support"/>
 +
|-
 +
|style="text-align:center"|9.2.0
 +
|March 2, 2020
 +
|General system stability improvements.<ref name="support"/>
 +
|-
 +
|style="text-align:center"|10.0.0
 +
|April 13, 2020
 +
|Added bookmark feature to news. Added ability to move software data between system memory and an SD card. Added ability to remap controller buttons. Moved some options about play activity from Friends settings to Play Activity settings. Added 6 new ''Animal Crossing: New Horizons'' user icons. General system stability improvements.<ref name="support"/>
 +
|-
 +
|style="text-align:center"|10.0.1
 +
|April 21, 2020
 +
|General system stability improvements.<ref name="support"/>
 +
|-
 +
|style="text-align:center"|10.0.2
 +
|April 29, 2020
 +
|General system stability improvements, including fixing an issue with setting up a Nintendo Switch Pro Controller<ref name="support"/>
 +
|-
 +
|style="text-align:center"|10.0.3
 +
|May 25, 2020
 +
|General system stability improvements.<ref name="support"/>
 +
|-
 +
|style="text-align:center"|10.0.4
 +
|June 4, 2020
 +
|Fixed issue with using a credit card in some countries or regions.<ref name="support"/>
 +
|-
 +
|style="text-align:center"|10.1.0
 +
|July 13, 2020
 +
|General system stability improvements.<ref name="support"/>
 +
|-
 +
|style="text-align:center"|10.2.0
 +
|September 14, 2020
 +
|General system stability improvements.<ref name="support"/>
 +
|-
 +
|style="text-align:center"|11.0.0
 +
|November 30, 2020
 +
|Added Nintendo Switch Online to HOME menu. Added a new feature to automatically download backed up save data. Added "Trending" feature to user page. Added ability to transfer screenshots and videos to smart devices. Added Copy to Computer via USB Connection feature for transferring screenshots and videos. Added ability for users to prioritize downloads. Added 12 ''Super Mario Bros.'' icons for the 35th anniversary of the series. Added ability to name preset button mappings. Add Brazilian Portuguese. General system stability improvements.<ref name="support"/>
 +
|-
 +
|style="text-align:center"|11.0.1
 +
|December 10, 2020
 +
|Fixed issues with version 11.0.0. These were a problem where some games could not be played correctly, an issue with the image not being displayed on some TVs, and an issue with the Control Stick and the C Stick on Nintendo GameCube controllers.<ref name="support"/>
 +
|-
 +
|style="text-align:center"|12.0.0
 +
|April 5, 2021
 +
|Fixed an issue with save data backup being interrupted if a communication error occurs which backing up.<ref name="support"/>
 +
|-
 +
|style="text-align:center"|12.0.1
 +
|April 19, 2021
 +
|General system stability improvements.<ref name="support"/>
 +
|-
 +
|style="text-align:center"|12.0.2
 +
|May 11, 2021
 +
|General system stability improvements.<ref name="support"/>
 +
|-
 +
|style="text-align:center"|12.0.3
 +
|June 7, 2021
 +
|General system stability improvements.<ref name="support"/>
 +
|-
 +
|style="text-align:center"|12.1.0
 +
|July 5, 2021
 +
|Added ability to delete old data for software to make space for an update to the same software.<ref name="support"/>
 +
|-
 +
|style="text-align:center"|13.0.0
 +
|September 14, 2021
 +
|Added support for Bluetooth audio. Added ability to update Nintendo Switch docks with a LAN port. Added setting for keeping connected to the internet when the console is asleep when using a wired connection. Changed how calibrating control sticks works. Added ability to see whether the console is using 2.4GHz or 5GHz frequency for its wireless internet connections.<ref name="support"/>
 +
|-
 +
|style="text-align:center"|13.1.0
 +
|October 25, 2021
 +
|Added support for Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack. General system stability improvements.<ref name="support"/>
 +
|-
 +
|style="text-align:center"|13.2.0
 +
|November 30, 2021
 +
|General system stability improvements.<ref name="support"/>
 +
|-
 +
|style="text-align:center"|13.2.1
 +
|January 19, 2022
 +
|General system stability improvements.<ref name="support"/>
 +
|-
 +
|style="text-align:center"|14.0.0
 +
|March 21, 2022
 +
|Added "Groups" feature, which allows users to create groups of software to organize it. Changed how controlling volume of Bluetooth audio works.<ref name="support"/>
 +
|-
 +
|style="text-align:center"|14.1.0
 +
|April 4, 2022
 +
|Added "Platinum Point Notification Settings".<ref name="support"/>
 +
|-
 +
|style="text-align:center"|14.1.1
 +
|April 18, 2022
 +
|General system stability improvements.<ref name="support"/>
 +
|-
 +
|style="text-align:center"|14.1.2
 +
|June 13, 2022
 +
|General system stability improvements.<ref name="support"/>
 +
|-
 +
|style="text-align:center"|15.0.0
 +
|October 10, 2022
 +
|Moved the location of the Bluetooth audio settings. Added ability to take screenshots in the Nintendo Switch Online application. General system stability improvements.<ref name="support"/>
 +
|-
 +
|style="text-align:center"|15.0.1
 +
|October 31, 2022
 +
|Fixed the error with the code 2181-1000 which would occur when playing DLC on a console which is not the user's primary console. Fixed an issue with screenshot being prevented at specific times in some games. General system stability improvements.<ref name="support"/>
 +
|-
 +
|style="text-align:center"|16.0.0
 +
|February 20, 2023
 +
|Unusable user nicknames are now replaced with "???". General system stability improvements.<ref name="support"/>
 +
|-
 +
|style="text-align:center"|16.0.1
 +
|March 22, 2023
 +
|General system stability improvements.<ref name="support"/>
 +
|-
 +
|style="text-align:center"|16.0.2
 +
|April 17, 2023
 +
|General system stability improvements.<ref name="support"/>
 +
|-
 +
|style="text-align:center"|16.0.3
 +
|May 8, 2023
 +
|General system stability improvements.<ref name="support"/>
 +
|-
 +
|style="text-align:center"|16.1.0
 +
|August 21, 2023
 +
|General system stability improvements.<ref name="support"/>
 +
|-
 +
|style="text-align:center"|17.0.0
 +
|October 10, 2023
 +
|General system stability improvements.<ref name="support"/>
 +
|-
 +
|style="text-align:center"|17.0.1
 +
|December 4, 2023
 +
|Fixed an issue with local communication. General system stability improvements.<ref name="support"/>
 +
|-
 +
|style="text-align:center"|18.0.0
 +
|March 25, 2024
 +
|Added 15 minute option for "Auto-sleep when playing on TV". Added Korean parental controls video. General system stability improvements.<ref name="support"/>
 +
|-
 +
|style="text-align:center"|18.0.1
 +
|April 22, 2024
 +
|Fixed an issue with some wireless access points not being found. General system stability improvements.<ref name="support"/>
 
|-
 
|-
 
! colspan=3 | [http://en-americas-support.nintendo.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/22525/~/nintendo-switch-system-updates-and-change-history Official change log]
 
! colspan=3 | [http://en-americas-support.nintendo.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/22525/~/nintendo-switch-system-updates-and-change-history Official change log]
Line 178: Line 389:
  
 
==Availability==
 
==Availability==
−
The Nintendo Switch is the first Nintendo console to have a simultaneous launch in all key markets, which include Japan, North America, and Europe. Nintendo currently has no plans to officially release the console in other significant gaming markets such as China and India.
+
The Nintendo Switch is the first Nintendo console to have a simultaneous launch in all key markets, which include Japan, North America, and Europe. Nintendo has yet to officially release the console in certain significant gaming markets such as India, but Nintendo has been gradually launching the console into more markets, including those new to official launches of Nintendo hardware.
 +
 
 +
On March 3, 2017, the Nintendo Switch was officially released in 62 markets, which include Albania, Australia, Austria, the Bahamas, Barbados, Belgium, Belize, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Denmark, the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Guatemala, Honduras, Hong Kong, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macedonia, Malta, Mexico, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Nigeria, Norway, Panama, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, Suriname, Sweden, Switzerland, Trinidad and Tobago, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, the United States (including U.S. territories such as Puerto Rico), and Venezuela, the widest launch for any home or portable video game console.
 +
 
 +
On August 15, 2017, the Nintendo Switch was officially released in Argentina.<ref>"[http://culturageek.com.ar/nintendo-switch-argentina-precio-fecha/ Nintendo Switch en Argentina: ¡Precio y fecha de lanzamiento oficial confirmados!]". ''Cultura Geek'' (in Spanish) - Preci, Augusto Finocchiaro (July 24, 2017).</ref>
 +
 
 +
On December 1, 2017, the Nintendo Switch was officially released in South Korea<ref>"[http://www.nintendo.co.kr/PR/press_list.php?cPage1=1&cPage2=1&idx=274&press_div=P Switch and Play 게임 생활을 보다 액티브하게! 한국닌텐도, 「Nintendo Switch™」 12월 1일 국내 정식 발매 결정]". Nintendo of Korea official press release (in Korean). September 20, 2017.</ref> and Taiwan.<ref>"[http://www.nintendo.tw/pressrelease/switch_20170920.html Switch and Play 讓遊戲生活更有趣味 「Nintendo Switch」 2017年12月1日、NTD9,780(含稅) 在台灣發售]". Nintendo (Hong Kong) Ltd. official press release (in Traditional Chinese). September 20, 2017.</ref> The launch in those territories brought official language support for Chinese (traditional and simplified) and Korean on the Nintendo Switch, with various games receiving support since October 2017, coinciding with the release of version 4.0.0 of the Nintendo Switch operating software.
 +
 
 +
Nintendo's Singapore-based distributor, [[Active Boeki|Maxsoft]], officially launched the Nintendo Switch in the Philippines on November 30, 2018<ref>"[https://twitter.com/MaxsoftOnline/status/1068395621936025600 Nintendo Switch - Official Philippines Version will be released today!]". Maxsoft's official Twitter. November 30, 2018.</ref>, in Thailand on March 29, 2019,<ref>[https://www.nintendo.com/th/hardware/switch/modal/lineup.html Nintendo Switch วางจำหน่าย：29 มีนาคม 2019 (ศุกร์)]. Official Nintendo website for Thailand.</ref>, and in Malaysia on January 17, 2020.<ref>[https://www.nintendo.com/my/hardware/switch/modal/lineup_kabaa.html Nintendo Switch Released:17 January 2020, Friday]. Official Nintendo website for Malaysia.</ref> Although Nintendo's official Malaysian reseller [[Active Boeki|M.M.Soft]] has ''de facto'' released the console to local retailers since March 2017.
  
−
On March 3, 2017, the Nintendo Switch was officially released in 62 markets, which include Albania, Australia, Austria, Bahamas, Barbados, Belgium, Belize, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Guatemala, Honduras, Hong Kong, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macedonia, Malta, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Nigeria, Norway, Panama, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, Suriname, Sweden, Switzerland, Trinidad and Tobago, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States (including U.S. territories like Puerto Rico), and Venezuela. The widest launch for any home or portable video game console.
+
In early 2019, Nintendo of Europe signed a partnership with Tel Aviv-based distributor [[TorGaming|TorGaming Ltd.]], making them Nintendo's official distributor in Israel. TorGaming began launching their products in the market, including the Nintendo Switch, on March 1, 2019.<ref>"[https://il.ign.com/nintendo/40693/news/lrshvnh-byshrl-tvr-gyymyng-mshyqh-t-nyntndv-brts-bybv-rshmy לראשונה בישראל – תור גיימינג משיקה את נינטנדו בארץ ביבוא רשמי]". IGN Israel (in Hebrew). March 12, 2019.</ref>
  
−
In May 2017, the Nintendo Switch was officially released in Brazil. Although Nintendo pulled out of Brazil back in 2015, they had since assigned NC Games as their local distributor, which made the launch in Brazil possible.<ref>"[https://www.vice.com/pt_br/article/j5ezpy/jogos-de-nintendo-switch-e-3ds-serao-distribuidos-no-brasil Jogos de Nintendo Switch e 3DS serão distribuídos no Brasil]". ''Vice'' (in Portuguese) - Falcão, Pedro (May 25, 2017).</ref>
+
Nintendo's Dubai-based distributor, [[Active Boeki|Active Gulf]], officially launched the Nintendo Switch in Oman on September 27, 2019.<ref>"[https://www.facebook.com/NintendoMiddleEast/photos/a.257069684360761/2536615979739442/ The Nintendo Switch is officially launched today in Oman!!]". Active Gulf's official Facebook. September 27, 2019.</ref>
  
−
On August 15, 2017, the Nintendo Switch was officially released in Argentina.<ref>"[http://culturageek.com.ar/nintendo-switch-argentina-precio-fecha/ Nintendo Switch en Argentina: ¡Precio y fecha de lanzamiento oficial confirmados!]". ''Cultura Geek'' (in Spanish) - Preci, Augusto Finocchiaro (July 24, 2017).</ref>
+
In April 2019, Nintendo announced a partnership with Chinese conglomerate {{wp|Tencent}} to distribute the Nintendo Switch in mainland China. The system would be released on December 10, 2019.<ref>"[https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2019/12/nintendo_switch_to_officially_launch_in_china_next_week Nintendo Switch To Officially Launch In China Next Week]". ''Nintendo Life''. December 4, 2019.</ref>
  
−
On December 1, 2017, the Nintendo Switch was officially released in South Korea<ref>"[http://www.nintendo.co.kr/PR/press_list.php?cPage1=1&cPage2=1&idx=274&press_div=P Switch and Play 게임 생활을 보다 액티브하게! 한국닌텐도, 「Nintendo Switch™」 12월 1일 국내 정식 발매 결정]". Nintendo of Korea official press release (in Korean). September 20, 2017.</ref> and Taiwan.<ref>"[http://www.nintendo.tw/pressrelease/switch_20170920.html Switch and Play 讓遊戲生活更有趣味 「Nintendo Switch」 2017年12月1日、NTD9,780(含稅) 在台灣發售]". Nintendo (Hong Kong) Ltd. official press release (in Traditional Chinese). September 20, 2017.</ref> The launch in those territories brought official language support for Chinese (traditional and simplified) and Korean on the Nintendo Switch, and for various games since October 2017, coinciding with the release of version 4.0.0 of the Nintendo Switch operating software.
+
Although Nintendo pulled out of Brazil back in 2015 due to high tariffs, the Nintendo Switch was officially released in Brazil in May 2017 after Nintendo had originally assigned NC Games as their local distributor, which made the launch in Brazil possible.<ref>"[https://www.vice.com/pt_br/article/j5ezpy/jogos-de-nintendo-switch-e-3ds-serao-distribuidos-no-brasil Jogos de Nintendo Switch e 3DS serão distribuídos no Brasil]". ''Vice'' (in Portuguese) - Falcão, Pedro (May 25, 2017).</ref> However, NC Games silently went defunct in circa 2019. In August 2020, Nintendo of America announced that they would restart Nintendo Switch imports directly into Brazil,<ref>"[https://www.engadget.com/nintendo-switch-brazil-152833236.html Nintendo is bringing the Switch to Brazil at last]". ''Engadget''. August 19, 2020.</ref> starting on September 18, 2020.<ref>"[https://www.engadget.com/nintendo-switch-brazil-september-18-224512970.html The Nintendo Switch goes on sale in Brazil on September 18th]". ''Engadget''. September 7, 2020.</ref>
  
 
==Reception==
 
==Reception==
Line 192: Line 411:
 
At its reveal, many of Nintendo's announced partners showed their interest in and praised the Nintendo Switch. {{wp|Ubisoft}} CEO Yves Guillemot said that the Nintendo Switch "could again redefine the way we play games."<ref name="devs">[http://www.ign.com/articles/2016/10/20/developers-respond-to-nintendo-switch Developers Respond to Nintendo Switch]. IGN (October 20, 2016). Retrieved October 21, 2016.</ref> Bethesda announced that they were "trilled" to be a partner for Nintendo Switch, stating that the console "presents exciting opportunities for our studios & fans."<ref>[http://gonintendo.com/stories/267092-bethesda-says-they-re-thrilled-to-be-working-on-switch Bethesda Bethesda says they're 'thrilled' to be working on Switch]. GoNintendo (October 20, 2016). Retrieved October 21, 2016.</ref>
 
At its reveal, many of Nintendo's announced partners showed their interest in and praised the Nintendo Switch. {{wp|Ubisoft}} CEO Yves Guillemot said that the Nintendo Switch "could again redefine the way we play games."<ref name="devs">[http://www.ign.com/articles/2016/10/20/developers-respond-to-nintendo-switch Developers Respond to Nintendo Switch]. IGN (October 20, 2016). Retrieved October 21, 2016.</ref> Bethesda announced that they were "trilled" to be a partner for Nintendo Switch, stating that the console "presents exciting opportunities for our studios & fans."<ref>[http://gonintendo.com/stories/267092-bethesda-says-they-re-thrilled-to-be-working-on-switch Bethesda Bethesda says they're 'thrilled' to be working on Switch]. GoNintendo (October 20, 2016). Retrieved October 21, 2016.</ref>
  
−
When asked about his thoughts on the Nintendo Switch on Twitter, {{wp|Phil Spencer (business executive)|Phil Spencer}}, the head of {{wp|Microsoft}}'s {{wp|Xbox}} division, replied by stating, "I'm always impressed with [Nintendo's] ability to state a bold vision and build a product that delivers on that vision."<ref name="xbox">[http://www.nintendolife.com/news/2016/10/xbox_bosses_praise_the_bold_vision_of_nintendo_switch Xbox Bosses Praise The "Bold Vision" Of Nintendo Switch]. Nintendo Life (October 21, 2016). Retrieved October 21, 2016.</ref> Xbox marketing boss Aaron Greenberg also commented that the Nintendo Switch, "looks like fun!" and praised Nintendo's innovation in the industry.<ref name="xbox"/> {{wp|Shuhei Yoshida}}, the head of Sony's Worldwide Studios, has said that the Nintendo Switch is "a very unique system," and that it will be "good for core gamers."<ref>[http://gonintendo.com/stories/269844-sony-says-switch-is-unique-interesting-believe-it-to-be-g Sony says Switch is "unique" & "interesting", believe it to be "good for core gamers", talk Nintendo mobile efforts]. GoNintendo (December 6, 2016). Retrieved December 7, 2016.</ref>
+
When asked about his thoughts on the Nintendo Switch on Twitter, {{wp|Phil Spencer (business executive)|Phil Spencer}}, the head of {{wp|Microsoft}}'s {{wp|Xbox}} division, replied by stating, "I'm always impressed with [Nintendo's] ability to state a bold vision and build a product that delivers on that vision."<ref name="xbox">[http://www.nintendolife.com/news/2016/10/xbox_bosses_praise_the_bold_vision_of_nintendo_switch Xbox Bosses Praise The "Bold Vision" Of Nintendo Switch]. Nintendo Life (October 21, 2016). Retrieved October 21, 2016.</ref> Xbox marketing boss Aaron Greenberg also commented that the Nintendo Switch, "looks like fun!" and praised Nintendo's innovation in the industry.<ref name="xbox"/> {{wp|Shuhei Yoshida}}, then-president of {{wp|Sony}}'s {{wp|PlayStation Studios|SIE Worldwide Studios}}, has said that the Nintendo Switch is "a very unique system," and that it will be "good for core gamers."<ref>[http://gonintendo.com/stories/269844-sony-says-switch-is-unique-interesting-believe-it-to-be-g Sony says Switch is "unique" & "interesting", believe it to be "good for core gamers", talk Nintendo mobile efforts]. GoNintendo (December 6, 2016). Retrieved December 7, 2016.</ref>
  
−
Business analysts were more skeptical of the device and Nintendo's direction with the console, with many citing its main gimmick and target audience. Dr. Serkan Toto questioned the console's level of innovation and whether or not the Nintendo Switch's hybrid concept would be able to attract a wide enough audience, asking, "who else but die-hard Nintendo fans will buy the Switch?"<ref>[http://www.gamespot.com/articles/nintendo-stock-value-drops-65-percent-after-switch/1100-6444681/ Nintendo Stock Value Drops 6.5 Percent After Switch Reveal, Some Analysts Doubt Its Appeal]. GameSpot (October 21, 2016). Retrieved October 21, 2016.</ref><ref>[http://www.nytimes.com/2016/10/22/business/international/nintendo-stock-switch-console.html?_r=0 Nintendo Switch Console Is Met With Skepticism From Investors]. The New York Times (October 21, 2016). Retrieved October 21, 2016.</ref> Others were also concerned with other aspects of the console that had yet to be announced at the time, such as the device's battery life, its price point, and third-party support.<ref>[http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/2016-10-20-who-else-but-die-hard-nintendo-fans-will-buy-the-switch "Who else but die-hard Nintendo fans will buy the Switch?"] GamesIndustry.biz (October 20, 2016). Retrieved October 21, 2016.</ref>
+
Business analysts were more skeptical of the device and Nintendo's direction with the console, with many citing the portable nature of the system as its core selling point and the potential target audience. Dr. Serkan Toto questioned the console's level of innovation and whether or not the Nintendo Switch's hybrid concept would be able to attract a wide enough audience, asking, "who else but die-hard Nintendo fans will buy the Switch?"<ref>[http://www.gamespot.com/articles/nintendo-stock-value-drops-65-percent-after-switch/1100-6444681/ Nintendo Stock Value Drops 6.5 Percent After Switch Reveal, Some Analysts Doubt Its Appeal]. GameSpot (October 21, 2016). Retrieved October 21, 2016.</ref><ref>[http://www.nytimes.com/2016/10/22/business/international/nintendo-stock-switch-console.html?_r=0 Nintendo Switch Console Is Met With Skepticism From Investors]. The New York Times (October 21, 2016). Retrieved October 21, 2016.</ref> Others were also concerned with other aspects of the console that had yet to be announced at the time, such as the device's battery life, price point, and third-party support.<ref>[http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/2016-10-20-who-else-but-die-hard-nintendo-fans-will-buy-the-switch "Who else but die-hard Nintendo fans will buy the Switch?"] GamesIndustry.biz (October 20, 2016). Retrieved October 21, 2016.</ref>
  
 
Within twenty-four hours of its posting, the "First Look at Nintendo Switch" trailer became the most-viewed video on Nintendo of America's YouTube channel<ref>[http://gonintendo.com/stories/267166-nintendo-switch-preview-trailer-becomes-most-watched-video-on-noa Nintendo Switch preview trailer becomes most watched video on NoA YouTube, surpasses 10 million views]. GoNintendo (October 21, 2016). Retrieved October 21, 2016.</ref> and the top trending video on YouTube overall<ref>[https://www.gamnesia.com/news/the-nintendo-switch-reveal-is-the-top-trending-youtube-video-with-over-10-m The Nintendo Switch Reveal is the Top Trending YouTube Video With Over 10 Million Views in One Day]. Gamenesia (October 21, 2016). Retrieved October 22, 2016.</ref>, surpassing 10 million views. In an investor's briefing on October 26, the company revealed that the trailer had been viewed more than 23 million times on its official YouTube channels alone, and that reactions were more than 95% positive.<ref>[http://gonintendo.com/stories/267492-switch-reveal-viewed-by-over-23-million-people-reaction-95-posi Switch reveal viewed by over 23 million people, reactions 95% positive]. GoNintendo (October 26, 2016). Retrieved October 26, 2016.</ref><ref>[https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2016/161027_2e.pdf Semi-Annual Financial Results Briefing for Fiscal Year Ending March 2017]. Nintendo (October 27, 2016). Retrieved October 27, 2016.</ref>
 
Within twenty-four hours of its posting, the "First Look at Nintendo Switch" trailer became the most-viewed video on Nintendo of America's YouTube channel<ref>[http://gonintendo.com/stories/267166-nintendo-switch-preview-trailer-becomes-most-watched-video-on-noa Nintendo Switch preview trailer becomes most watched video on NoA YouTube, surpasses 10 million views]. GoNintendo (October 21, 2016). Retrieved October 21, 2016.</ref> and the top trending video on YouTube overall<ref>[https://www.gamnesia.com/news/the-nintendo-switch-reveal-is-the-top-trending-youtube-video-with-over-10-m The Nintendo Switch Reveal is the Top Trending YouTube Video With Over 10 Million Views in One Day]. Gamenesia (October 21, 2016). Retrieved October 22, 2016.</ref>, surpassing 10 million views. In an investor's briefing on October 26, the company revealed that the trailer had been viewed more than 23 million times on its official YouTube channels alone, and that reactions were more than 95% positive.<ref>[http://gonintendo.com/stories/267492-switch-reveal-viewed-by-over-23-million-people-reaction-95-posi Switch reveal viewed by over 23 million people, reactions 95% positive]. GoNintendo (October 26, 2016). Retrieved October 26, 2016.</ref><ref>[https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2016/161027_2e.pdf Semi-Annual Financial Results Briefing for Fiscal Year Ending March 2017]. Nintendo (October 27, 2016). Retrieved October 27, 2016.</ref>
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===Nintendo Switch Lite===
 
===Nintendo Switch Lite===
 
{{main|Nintendo Switch Lite}}
 
{{main|Nintendo Switch Lite}}
−
The '''Nintendo Switch Lite''' is the first major revision for the Nintendo Switch hardware, to be released in September 2019. Designed to be a purely portable, handheld model of the Nintendo Switch, the device features integrated buttons and improved battery life, while lacking the ability to connect to a television.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=59yuBFRSZdg First Look at Nintendo Switch Lite: New Addition to the Nintendo Switch Family]. Nintendo (YouTube; July 10, 2019). Retrieved July 10, 2019.</ref>
+
The '''Nintendo Switch Lite''' is the first major revision for the Nintendo Switch hardware, released in September 2019. Designed to be a purely portable, handheld model of the Nintendo Switch, the device features integrated buttons and improved battery life, while lacking the ability to connect to a television.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=59yuBFRSZdg First Look at Nintendo Switch Lite: New Addition to the Nintendo Switch Family]. Nintendo (YouTube; July 10, 2019). Retrieved July 10, 2019.</ref>
  
 
===HAC-001(-01)===
 
===HAC-001(-01)===
−
In July 2019, it was confirmed that an updated model of the original Nintendo Switch hardware, model number HAC-001(-01), would enter production. The updated model, to be released in August 2019 in most regions and in September 2019 in Europe, will feature improved battery life, lasting approximately 4.5 to 9 hours undocked, depending on the software.<ref>[https://nintendoeverything.com/nintendo-announces-new-model-of-the-original-switch-with-longer-battery-life/ Nintendo announces new model of the original Switch with longer battery life]. Nintendo Everything (July 17, 2019). Retrieved July 17, 2019.</ref><ref>[https://www.nintendo.com/switch/compare/ Compare systems]. Nintendo. Retrieved July 17, 2019.</ref>
+
In July 2019, it was confirmed that a revision of the original Nintendo Switch hardware, model number HAC-001(-01), would be entering production.<ref>[https://nintendoeverything.com/nintendo-announces-new-model-of-the-original-switch-with-longer-battery-life/ Nintendo announces new model of the original Switch with longer battery life]. Nintendo Everything (July 17, 2019). Retrieved July 17, 2019.</ref> Released in August 2019 in most regions and in September 2019 in Europe, the updated model uses a smaller, more power-efficient variant of the Tegra X1 and more efficient LPDDR4X RAM chips that allow for improved battery life, lasting approximately 4.5 to 9 hours undocked depending on the software.<ref>[https://www.nintendo.com/switch/compare/ Compare systems]. Nintendo. Retrieved July 17, 2019.</ref><ref>[https://www.ifixit.com/News/32540/we-tore-down-the-new-nintendo-switch-whats-different We Tore Down the New Nintendo Switch. What's Different?] iFixit (August 19, 2019). Retrieved June 3, 2021.</ref>
 +
 
 +
===Nintendo Switch (OLED model)===
 +
{{main|Nintendo Switch (OLED model)}}
 +
The '''Nintendo Switch (OLED model)''' is the second major revision for the Nintendo Switch hardware, released in October 2021. Its main selling point is the new wider OLED display, a new adjustable stand for tabletop mode, enhanced audio, increased storage capacity, and a new dock sporting a built-in LAN port.<ref>[https://www.nintendo.com/switch/oled-model/ Nintendo Switch (OLED model)]. Nintendo (July 6, 2021). Retrieved July 6, 2021.</ref>
  
 
==Gallery==
 
==Gallery==
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==External links==
 
==External links==
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{{Otherwikis|collapsed=yes|ARMS Institute=1|Bulbapedia=1|Fire Emblem Wiki=1|Inkipedia=1|Lylat Wiki=1|Nookipedia=1|Pikipedia=1|SmashWiki=1|StrategyWiki=Category:Nintendo Switch|Super Mario Wiki=1|WiKirby=1|Zelda Wiki=1}}
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{{Otherwikis|collapsed=yes|ARMS Institute=1|Bulbapedia=1|Fire Emblem Wiki=1|Inkipedia=1|Lylat Wiki=1|Metroid Wiki=1|Nookipedia=1|Pikipedia=1|SmashWiki=1|Starfy Wiki=1|StrategyWiki=Category:Nintendo Switch|Super Mario Wiki=1|WikiBound=1|WiKirby=1|Xeno Series Wiki=1|Zelda Wiki=1}}
 
*{{wp|Nintendo Switch|Nintendo Switch on Wikipedia}}
 
*{{wp|Nintendo Switch|Nintendo Switch on Wikipedia}}
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*[http://www.nintendo.com/switch/ Official North American website]
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*[https://www.nintendo.com/switch/ Official North American website]
 
*[https://www.nintendo.co.jp/switch/index.html Official Japanese website]
 
*[https://www.nintendo.co.jp/switch/index.html Official Japanese website]
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*[http://www.nintendo.co.uk/Nintendo-Switch/Nintendo-Switch-1148779.html Official European / UK website]
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*[https://www.nintendo.co.uk/Nintendo-Switch/Nintendo-Switch-1148779.html Official European / UK website]
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*[http://www.nintendo.com.au/nintendo-switch/ Official Australian website]
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*[https://www.nintendo.com.au/nintendo-switch/ Official Australian website]
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*[http://www.nintendo.co.kr/switch/top.php Official Korean website]
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*[https://www.nintendo.com.hk/hardware/switch/index.html Official Hong Kong website]
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*[https://www.nintendo.tw/hardware/switch/index.html Official Taiwanese website]
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*[https://www.nintendoswitch.com.cn/ Official mainland China website]
 
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Latest revision as of 04:42, 21 September 2024

"Switch and Play"
–Advertising slogan
Nintendo Switch
ニンテンドースイッチ Nintendō Suitchi
Nintendo Switch logo.png
Nintendo Switch 2.jpg
The Nintendo Switch inside the Nintendo Switch Dock, with Joy-Con controllers.
Games
No. of games
No. of launch titles NA: 10
JP: 20
PAL: 19
KOR: 12
Best-selling game Mario Kart 8 Deluxe (48.41 million)[1]
Last game N/A
Technical details
Media Nintendo Switch Game Card, digital download
Storage capacity 32GB internal memory, microSD/SDHC/SDXC card (up to 2TB)[2]
CPU Nvidia Tegra X1 SoC[3][4]
Model no. HAC-001
Compatibility
Can connect with N/A
Input Joy-Con, Nintendo Switch Pro Controller
Backwards compatible with N/A
Services provided Nintendo eShop, Nintendo Account, Nintendo Switch Online
Time
Launch date WW: March 3, 2017[5]
KOR: December 1, 2017[6]
Discontinue date N/A
Units sold WW: 114.33 million[7]
NA: 44.59 million[8]
JP: 26.96 million[8]
EU: 29.29 million[8]
Lineage
Predecessor Successor
Wii U N/A

The Nintendo Switch is Nintendo's seventh major home console platform[9][10], following the Wii U. The system is described as being a hybrid handheld and home console device, allowing players to take the system and play home console games on the go.[11] Officially unveiled in October 2016, the Nintendo Switch launched worldwide simultaneously in March 2017[12][13][5].

Production

Nintendo began working on concepts for its next system following the release of the Wii U in late 2012[14], with the system concept being finalized and development starting in late 2013.[14][15][16] Satoru Iwata, Tatsumi Kimishima, Genyo Takeda, and Shigeru Miyamoto created a strategy to revitalize Nintendo's business, including entering the mobile market, creating a new dedicated game platform, and "maximizing" the company's intellectual property.[16] According to Tatsumi Kimishima, development began with the question, "What kind of new experience can we create?"[16] The system designers initially struggled to come up with a concept for the system, until looking back at the company's history and seeing that "[Nintendo's] really been an amusement provider."[15] Afterward, the concept of playing games anywhere with anyone came about.[15] With the overall concept set, many of the basic features of the system came about quickly afterward; according to designer Yoshiaki Koizumi, the concept of having two controllers that could attach to the console was one of the first decisions to be made.[15] The name "Switch" refers not only to the console's ability to swap between portable and TV modes, but also to the idea that it will be "a ‘switch’ that will flip, and change the way people experience entertainment in their daily lives."[17]

To show that Nintendo would continue in the dedicated gaming hardware business after announcing a partnership with DeNA to enter the mobile market, Satoru Iwata announced that a new Nintendo platform "with a brand-new concept" was in development during an investor's briefing in March 2015, referred to under the codename "NX".[18] During a later investor's meeting in May 2015, Iwata stated that the company would not give specific details or reveal the NX until 2016.[19] Succeeding Nintendo president Tatsumi Kimishima would later state that the new hardware would not be a successor to either the Wii U or the Nintendo 3DS family[20], and reconfirmed that the device is based around a new concept.[20][18] The Pokémon Company president Tsunekazu Ishihara also stated that the console "is trying to change what it means to be a home console device or a hand-held device".[21] During an investor's meeting in April 2016, Kimishima stated that the hardware would be priced to not sell at a loss at launch[22], later stating in July that the company plans on the Nintendo Switch making up for declining Wii U sales.[23]

Over time, rumors began to surface about the new console. One such rumor was that the device would run on a version of the Android operating system, which was later debunked by Nintendo.[24] According to Shigeru Miyamoto at a June 2016 investor's meeting, the NX was not showcased at E3 2016 as the company was worried about potential imitators if info was released too early.[25][26] In spite of this, however, according to Bethesda's Todd Howard, the system was still demoed in private at the event.[27]

The console was finally revealed as the Nintendo Switch on October 20, 2016.[11] When asked if the system would impact sales of the Nintendo 3DS due to its portable nature, a Nintendo representative answered that, "Nintendo Switch is a home gaming system first and foremost."[28] The company has also announced a "Nintendo Switch Presentation 2017" event on January 12, 2017, in Tokyo (livestreamed worldwide) to reveal more about the system, including its launch date, launch titles, and price, as well as announcing a number of hands-on events worldwide to take place pre-launch.[29]

At an investor's briefing in February 2017, Tatsumi Kimishima stated that two million units would be shipped for the console's launch.[30] Reggie Fils-Amie also said that the Nintendo Switch will not face any supply issues, which happened with the Nintendo Entertainment System: NES Classic Edition.[31] For the system's launch month, 2.74 million systems were shipped worldwide.[32] According to a Nintendo spokesperson, Nintendo shipped several systems via plane (a costlier measure by up to an additional ¥5,000/US$45 per unit) in order to more quickly meet demand at launch.[33] Following the launch, Kimishima said in the company's March 2017 fiscal year briefing that the company planned to increase production and improve supply for the holiday season, and that they expected to ship over 10 million Nintendo Switch units and 35 million games by March 2018.[32] However, in investors' materials released on October 30, Nintendo announced that it had revised its sales forecasts for the console, with plans to ship over 14 million hardware units and over 50 million games by March 2018.[34]

Kimishima has stated that he expects the console's lifetime sales to match those of the Wii (which sold over 101 million units).[35]

Features

The main feature of the Nintendo Switch is its ability to be played both as a dedicated home console and as handheld device[11], immediately transitioning from displaying on the television to the system's built-in screen.[13] The Nintendo Switch itself is a tablet-like device featuring a 6.2-inch capacitive multi-touch screen with a maximum display resolution of 720p.[36] This screen uses Immersion Corporation's "TouchSense" technology, providing haptic feedback when the touch screen is used.[37] On the top of the device is a power button, volume buttons, a 3.5mm headphone port, a covered Game Card slot, and on the back of the device is a kickstand[13] with a microSD card slot underneath.[36] On the sides of the system are rails that connect the Joy-Con controllers to the system.

The system is powered by a rechargeable 3.7 volt, 4310mAh/16Wh lithium-ion battery (HAC-003).[38] The Nintendo Switch's battery life when removed from the dock is officially stated to range from 2.5 to 6.5 hours, varying by software and usage[5]; Nintendo have commented that the system is designed to allow users to play for as long as possible "comfortably".[39] The system can be recharged using a USB Type-C cable[36], the type used for the system's AC Adapter (HAC-002).

The Nintendo Switch has three "play styles". In "TV Mode", the Nintendo Switch is connected to the Nintendo Switch Dock (HAC-007), allowing players to play on a television screen.[5] The dock features two USB 2.0 ports on the front, and an LED indicating when the system is outputting to the television.[36] Opening up the back of the dock reveals an additional USB 3.0 port, an HDMI port, and a USB Type-C port to connect the AC Adapter; the AC Adapter must be connected to the dock in order for the system to output to a television. When docked, the system is capable of up to 1080p video output.[36] In "Tabletop Mode", the Nintendo Switch is stood up on a surface using its kickstand while the Joy-Con are used separately, either for single-player or multiplayer.[5] Finally, in "Handheld Mode", the Joy-Con are attached to both sides of the Nintendo Switch in a form factor similar to the Wii U GamePad.[5] Up to eight systems can be connected for local play.[5]

Using the Capture button, players can capture a screenshot of their gameplay by pressing the button, or capture video clips of up to 30 seconds in length by holding the button, which can be accessed in the album menu. From the album, players are able to edit images by adding text with a variety of colors, positions, and sizes, and share it on social media sites.[40] Videos can also be edited by trimming the length from the beginning and ending; edited videos are saved separately from the original. Images and videos can also be saved to an SD card or deleted.[41] Up to 1,000 images can be saved onto the system's internal memory, while up to 10,000 can be saved to a microSD card.[42][43] Additionally, up to 100 videos can be saved to the system's internal memory, and up to 1,000 can be saved to a microSD card.[44]

The system is not backwards compatible with controllers and accessories with any previous systems. However, compatibility with some controllers may be considered for future updates.[40]

System software

The Nintendo Switch HOME Menu.

The Nintendo Switch HOME Menu displays a lineup of the user's most recently played software, ending with an "All Software" option that appears at the end of the list when more than twelve pieces of software have been downloaded.[45] At the bottom of the menu are six options: News, the Nintendo eShop, the Album, the Controllers menu for controller settings, the system settings, and the sleep mode button. When starting game software or the Nintendo eShop, the player is able to select which account is accessing the software.

At the top of the screen are a list of user icons, which allow players to view their profile and gameplay, view their friends list, add friends, and adjust user settings.

Memory

The Nintendo Switch features 32 GB of internal NAND memory.[36][2][40] The total storage capacity for the system can be expanded with a compatible microSD, microSDHC, or microSDXC card up to 2TB in size.[2][46] SD cards can be used to store downloaded software, software updates and add-on content, and captured screenshots and video; save data is stored on the system memory and cannot be transferred to an SD card.[40][47]

The system does not support USB-based storage options such as external hard drives, as being unable to take USB save data on the go conflicts with the portable aspect of the system. However, the company has stated that they have considered whether or not to add this feature in a future update.[46][40]

Online

NintendoWiki logo.png  Main article: Nintendo Switch Online 

Rather than Nintendo Network, the system uses a new online service titled Nintendo Switch Online, a paid subscription-based online service based around the Nintendo Account service.[48] Under the paid subscription service, users are able to play online with each other, as well as use the online lobby and voice chat application on smart devices.[48] Subscribers are also given exclusive offers and deals, access to the Save Data Cloud to upload and retrieve save data, and access to the Nintendo Switch Online - Nintendo Entertainment System and Super Nintendo Entertainment System applications, allowing users to play classic games with added online play.[48] Online play was initially available for free until 2018, while a free version of the voice chat and lobby app was released in summer 2017.[48]

Other internet-based services, such as the Nintendo eShop, sharing images, and adding and managing friends can be accessed without requiring a paid subscription; however, a Nintendo Account is still required to access any online features.[48] The Nintendo eShop region available to the user depends on the country they have selected for their Nintendo Account.[40]

System specs

The Nintendo Switch uses an Nvidia Tegra X1 system on a chip, featuring a CPU powered by ARM Cortex-A57 cores and four ARM Cortex-A53 cores, and a GM20B Maxwell GPU core.[4][38] Nvidia would only state before launch that the system was powered by a custom, "high-efficiency scalable" Tegra processor, with a GPU "based on the same architecture as the world's top-performing GeForce gaming graphics cards", and a custom "NVN" API "built specifically to bring lightweight, fast gaming to the masses."[3] The system features 4GB of LPDDR4 RAM.[38]

Games

NintendoWiki logo.png  Main article: Category:Nintendo Switch games 

The Nintendo Switch is the first Nintendo console after the Nintendo GameCube to not use a variant of the Game Disc format for physical releases, instead opting for the Game Card format similar to those used with Nintendo's handheld devices since the Nintendo DS.[49] Basic Game Cards are said to be able to hold 16 GB, and are non-rewriteable.[46] In addition, the Nintendo Switch is the first Nintendo home console to be region free, allowing users who purchase a game in another region to play that copy of the game on any Nintendo Switch system.[5]

In Japan, the hardware launched with twenty titles, of which nine were released at retail, while the other eleven were released digitally on the Nintendo eShop. In other territories, the system launched with five retail titles. In North America, five games were released on the Nintendo eShop at launch for a total of ten games at launch, while in Europe fourteen titles were released for a total of nineteen games. For the system's South Korean release, twelve games were available at launch.[6]

Nintendo Switch launch titles
NA JP PAL KOR
Physical / digital 1-2-Switch
Disgaea 5 Complete
Fate/Extella: The Umbral Star
Monster Hunter XX: Nintendo Switch Version
NBA 2K18
Puyo Puyo Tetris
Resident Evil Revelations
Sonic Forces
Super Bomberman R
Super Mario Odyssey
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
Ultra Street Fighter II: The Final Challengers
Wonder Boy: The Dragon's Trap
Xenoblade Chronicles 2
1-2-Switch
Just Dance 2017
Skylanders Imaginators
Super Bomberman R
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild 		1-2-Switch
Disgaea 5 Complete
Dragon Quest Heroes I•II for Nintendo Switch
I Am Setsuna
Nobunaga's Ambition: Sphere of Influence with Power Up Kit
Puyo Puyo Tetris
Super Bomberman R
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild 		1-2-Switch
Just Dance 2017
Skylanders Imaginators
Super Bomberman R
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
Digital only
FAST RMX
I Am Setsuna
Shovel Knight: Treasure Trove
Shovel Knight: Specter of Torment
Snipperclips - Cut it out, together! 		ACA NEOGEO Metal Slug 3
ACA NEOGEO Shock Troopers
ACA NEOGEO The King of Fighters '98
ACA NEOGEO Waku Waku 7
ACA NEOGEO World Heroes Perfect
Blaster Master Zero
Othello
New Frontier Days ~Founding Pioneers~
Snipperclips - Cut it out, together!
Soldam: Mu Kaika Sengen
VOEZ
Vroom in the night sky 		ACA NEOGEO Metal Slug 3
ACA NEOGEO Shock Troopers
ACA NEOGEO The King of Fighters '98
ACA NEOGEO Waku Waku 7
ACA NEOGEO World Heroes Perfect
FAST RMX
I Am Setsuna
Othello
New Frontier Days ~Founding Pioneers~
Shovel Knight: Treasure Trove
Shovel Knight: Specter of Torment
Snipperclips - Cut it out, together!
Voez
Vroom in the night sky

The Nintendo Switch is not backwards compatible with games for any previous systems.[39][40]

Controllers and accessories

Joy-Con

NintendoWiki logo.png  Main article: Joy-Con 

The Joy-Con (Joy-Con (L) and Joy-Con (R)) are the primary controllers for the Nintendo Switch. They can either be attached to the Nintendo Switch on both sides of the system, detached from the system to use without holding the screen or as two individual controllers, or attached to the Joy-Con Grip for a form factor more similar to a standard controller.[13] Both Joy-Con feature an analog stick, four face buttons (the d-pad on Joy-Con L and the standard face buttons on Joy-Con R), standard shoulder buttons and triggers, and a pair of "SL" and "SR" shoulder buttons on the rail.[36] Joy-Con L also features a Minus button and a Capture button[36][5], while Joy-Con R has a Plus button, a Home button, and NFC functionality.[36][5]

Nintendo Switch Pro Controller

NintendoWiki logo.png  Main article: Nintendo Switch Pro Controller 

The Nintendo Switch Pro Controller is an alternative controller for the console, designed after a more traditional controller.[11] The controller can be used with the Nintendo Switch regardless of whether or not it is attached to the dock.

amiibo

NintendoWiki logo.png  Main article: amiibo 

amiibo are compatible with the Nintendo Switch. Both the right Joy-Con and Nintendo Switch Pro Controller feature a built-in NFC touchpoint.[5]

Joy-Con Wheel

NintendoWiki logo.png  Main article: Joy-Con Wheel 

The Joy-Con Wheel is an accessory released alongside Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. Similar to the Wii Wheel, the Joy-Con Wheel is a wheel-shaped shell that a Joy-Con can be fitted into, giving it the form factor of a steering wheel. The Joy-Con Wheel also features plus and minus buttons as well as two triggers on the back.

Joy-Con AA Battery Pack

NintendoWiki logo.png  Main article: Joy-Con AA Battery Pack 

The Joy-Con AA Battery Pack is an attachment for the Joy-Con when separated from the Nintendo Switch, released in June 2017 alongside ARMS. The expansion attaches to the back of the Joy-Con and allows users to extend the battery life of the controllers using AA batteries.[50]

Adjustable Charging Stand

NintendoWiki logo.png  Main article: Adjustable Charging Stand 

The Adjustable Charging Stand is an external stand and charging station for the Nintendo Switch. The device plugs into the system using the charging port, and includes a port to plug in the AC Adapter and an adjustable stand to change the viewing angle of the system.[51]

Nintendo Labo

NintendoWiki logo.png  Main article: Nintendo Labo 

Nintendo Labo is a line of cardboard accessories designed to interact with the Nintendo Switch. The first Nintendo Labo kits launched in April 2018. Each kit features a set of do-it-yourself projects known as "Toy-Con" that must be assembled, and dedicated software featuring games that utilize the console and Toy-Con in different ways.

Following the release of the Nintendo Labo VR Kit, a number of other games also received updates to add compatibility with the Toy-Con VR Goggles.

Ring-Con and Leg Strap

NintendoWiki logo.png  Main article: Ring-Con and Leg Strap 

The Ring-Con and Leg Strap are a set of accessories released alongside Ring Fit Adventure as the primary controllers for the game. The accessories are utilized by attaching the Joy-Con to them, and are used in-game to perform a variety of exercises and movements.

System updates

Version Number Date Released Description
2.0.0 March 2, 2017 Allows players to access the console's online features, adds the ability to register friends through friend codes[52], allows the console to connect to Wi-Fi hotspots that require authentication.[53]
2.1.0[54] March 22, 2017 System stability improvements.
2.2.0[55] April 17, 2017 System stability improvements.
2.3.0[56] May 15, 2017 System stability improvements.
3.0.0[57] June 19, 2017 Allows users to register channels in News to receive news on specific games, allows users to add friends from their Nintendo 3DS and Wii U friends lists, allows users to receive notifications when friends are online, adds the ability to find paired and connected controllers using rumble, allows users to change the user icon order on the main menu, adds additional user icons, adds the ability to adjust the system volume from quick settings, allows users to adjust the maximum volume while using headphones, adds display color changes, allows users to use a Nintendo Switch Pro Controller with wired connection over USB, allows users to update controller firmware, adds a prompt to delete software data if there is insufficient storage space on the console.
3.0.1[58] July 31, 2017 Fixes issues with the battery percentage display.
3.0.2[59] September 5, 2017 Added online features in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia and Peru, system stability improvements.
4.0.0 October 18, 2017 Adds the ability to capture video clips of gameplay in compatible games, adds new user icons, adds the ability to transfer user and save data to another Nintendo Switch, adds the ability to pre-purchase games on the Nintendo eShop if available, updates to the News tab, allows users to update software by matching their software version with other local users, changes to internet connection specifications.
4.0.1 October 25, 2017 Changes HDMI connection specifications to match version 3.0.2 to fix video and audio issues.
4.1.0 December 4, 2017 Fixes an issue causing motion controls to respond incorrectly in compatible software.
5.0.0 March 12, 2018 Added ability to add friends from Facebook and Twitter accounts linked to the user's Nintendo Account. Added 24 user icons from ARMS and Kirby. Made purchases from PC or smart device start downloading sooner. Added ability to filter news by whether it has been read and by channel. Changed default entry method for Parental Controls PIN from on-screen number pad to Control Stick and buttons. Videos in the album from games restricted by Parental Controls will now be restricted depending on settings. Added ability to whitelist games using the Nintendo Switch Parental Controls app. Added notifications for when pre-purchased software is ready. Nintendo Switch Pro Controller grip colors are now shown in the Controllers menu. There were also general system stability improvements, including fixing an issue with displaying Play Activity.[60]
5.0.1 March 26, 2018 General system stability improvements.[60]
5.0.2 April 16, 2018 General system stability improvements, including fixing an issue with motion controls and an issue with friends' user icons not displaying.[60]
5.1.0 May 30. 2018 General system stability improvements.[60]
6.0.0 September 18, 2018 Added Save Data Cloud. Added ability to share up to 4 Album screenshots to social media. Added 6 new Captain Toad user icons. The term "active console" was renamed to "primary console" in the eShop. Displayed news articles will now be affected by parental control restrictions. Removed ability to unlink Nintendo Accounts from user. General system stability improvements, including improving compatibility for a licensed controller.[60]
6.0.1 October 8, 2018 General system stability improvements, including fixing an issue with incorrect speeds being displayed in the internet connection test and an issue with motion controls for licensed controllers.[60]
6.1.0 October 29, 2018 General system stability improvements, including fixing an issue with some games not recognizing Nintendo Switch Online memberships.[60]
6.2.0 November 19, 2018 General system stability improvements.[60]
7.0.0 January 28, 2019 Added 6 new New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe user icons. Added support for Chinese (Simplified), Chinese (Traditional), and Korean. General system stability improvements.[60]
7.0.1 February 18, 2019 General system stability improvements, including fixing an issue with Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Pokémon: Let's Go, Eevee! not connecting to Pokémon GO after closing the game.[60]
8.0.0 April 15, 2019 Added ability to sort software. Added a "View All Available News" option. Added 15 new user icons from Splatoon 2 and Yoshi’s Crafted World. Added ability to transfer save data for individual games between consoles. Added a zoom feature. Added option to prevent the console from waking when disconnecting an AC adapter. Added ability to restrict VR with Parental Controls. Added Hong Kong, Taiwan, and South Korea regions. Renamed "Save Data Cloud Backup" to "Save Data Cloud" and "Transfer Your User and Save Data" to "Transfer Your User Data". General system stability improvements.[60]
8.0.1 April 23, 2019 General system stability improvements.[60]
8.1.0 June 17, 2019 General system stability improvements.[60]
9.0.0 September 9, 2019 Added search feature to News Channel. Added ability to check in using a QR Code. Added Alarm Notifications. Added options for touch screen sensitivity. Added ability to disable system button input for the Nintendo Switch Lite. Added Online Play Invites to the user page. General system stability improvements, including fixing an issue where Fire Emblem: Three Houses won't start.[60]
9.0.1 September 30, 2019 General system stability improvements, including fixing an issue which caused errors during play, and fixed an issue where an instruction to remove Joy-Con was displayed when setting up a Nintendo Switch Lite.[60]
9.1.0 December 4, 2019 General system stability improvements, including fixing an issue with the color animation when connecting a Joy-Con to the Nintendo Switch.[60]
9.2.0 March 2, 2020 General system stability improvements.[60]
10.0.0 April 13, 2020 Added bookmark feature to news. Added ability to move software data between system memory and an SD card. Added ability to remap controller buttons. Moved some options about play activity from Friends settings to Play Activity settings. Added 6 new Animal Crossing: New Horizons user icons. General system stability improvements.[60]
10.0.1 April 21, 2020 General system stability improvements.[60]
10.0.2 April 29, 2020 General system stability improvements, including fixing an issue with setting up a Nintendo Switch Pro Controller[60]
10.0.3 May 25, 2020 General system stability improvements.[60]
10.0.4 June 4, 2020 Fixed issue with using a credit card in some countries or regions.[60]
10.1.0 July 13, 2020 General system stability improvements.[60]
10.2.0 September 14, 2020 General system stability improvements.[60]
11.0.0 November 30, 2020 Added Nintendo Switch Online to HOME menu. Added a new feature to automatically download backed up save data. Added "Trending" feature to user page. Added ability to transfer screenshots and videos to smart devices. Added Copy to Computer via USB Connection feature for transferring screenshots and videos. Added ability for users to prioritize downloads. Added 12 Super Mario Bros. icons for the 35th anniversary of the series. Added ability to name preset button mappings. Add Brazilian Portuguese. General system stability improvements.[60]
11.0.1 December 10, 2020 Fixed issues with version 11.0.0. These were a problem where some games could not be played correctly, an issue with the image not being displayed on some TVs, and an issue with the Control Stick and the C Stick on Nintendo GameCube controllers.[60]
12.0.0 April 5, 2021 Fixed an issue with save data backup being interrupted if a communication error occurs which backing up.[60]
12.0.1 April 19, 2021 General system stability improvements.[60]
12.0.2 May 11, 2021 General system stability improvements.[60]
12.0.3 June 7, 2021 General system stability improvements.[60]
12.1.0 July 5, 2021 Added ability to delete old data for software to make space for an update to the same software.[60]
13.0.0 September 14, 2021 Added support for Bluetooth audio. Added ability to update Nintendo Switch docks with a LAN port. Added setting for keeping connected to the internet when the console is asleep when using a wired connection. Changed how calibrating control sticks works. Added ability to see whether the console is using 2.4GHz or 5GHz frequency for its wireless internet connections.[60]
13.1.0 October 25, 2021 Added support for Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack. General system stability improvements.[60]
13.2.0 November 30, 2021 General system stability improvements.[60]
13.2.1 January 19, 2022 General system stability improvements.[60]
14.0.0 March 21, 2022 Added "Groups" feature, which allows users to create groups of software to organize it. Changed how controlling volume of Bluetooth audio works.[60]
14.1.0 April 4, 2022 Added "Platinum Point Notification Settings".[60]
14.1.1 April 18, 2022 General system stability improvements.[60]
14.1.2 June 13, 2022 General system stability improvements.[60]
15.0.0 October 10, 2022 Moved the location of the Bluetooth audio settings. Added ability to take screenshots in the Nintendo Switch Online application. General system stability improvements.[60]
15.0.1 October 31, 2022 Fixed the error with the code 2181-1000 which would occur when playing DLC on a console which is not the user's primary console. Fixed an issue with screenshot being prevented at specific times in some games. General system stability improvements.[60]
16.0.0 February 20, 2023 Unusable user nicknames are now replaced with "???". General system stability improvements.[60]
16.0.1 March 22, 2023 General system stability improvements.[60]
16.0.2 April 17, 2023 General system stability improvements.[60]
16.0.3 May 8, 2023 General system stability improvements.[60]
16.1.0 August 21, 2023 General system stability improvements.[60]
17.0.0 October 10, 2023 General system stability improvements.[60]
17.0.1 December 4, 2023 Fixed an issue with local communication. General system stability improvements.[60]
18.0.0 March 25, 2024 Added 15 minute option for "Auto-sleep when playing on TV". Added Korean parental controls video. General system stability improvements.[60]
18.0.1 April 22, 2024 Fixed an issue with some wireless access points not being found. General system stability improvements.[60]
Official change log

Availability

The Nintendo Switch is the first Nintendo console to have a simultaneous launch in all key markets, which include Japan, North America, and Europe. Nintendo has yet to officially release the console in certain significant gaming markets such as India, but Nintendo has been gradually launching the console into more markets, including those new to official launches of Nintendo hardware.

On March 3, 2017, the Nintendo Switch was officially released in 62 markets, which include Albania, Australia, Austria, the Bahamas, Barbados, Belgium, Belize, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Denmark, the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Guatemala, Honduras, Hong Kong, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macedonia, Malta, Mexico, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Nigeria, Norway, Panama, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, Suriname, Sweden, Switzerland, Trinidad and Tobago, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, the United States (including U.S. territories such as Puerto Rico), and Venezuela, the widest launch for any home or portable video game console.

On August 15, 2017, the Nintendo Switch was officially released in Argentina.[61]

On December 1, 2017, the Nintendo Switch was officially released in South Korea[62] and Taiwan.[63] The launch in those territories brought official language support for Chinese (traditional and simplified) and Korean on the Nintendo Switch, with various games receiving support since October 2017, coinciding with the release of version 4.0.0 of the Nintendo Switch operating software.

Nintendo's Singapore-based distributor, Maxsoft, officially launched the Nintendo Switch in the Philippines on November 30, 2018[64], in Thailand on March 29, 2019,[65], and in Malaysia on January 17, 2020.[66] Although Nintendo's official Malaysian reseller M.M.Soft has de facto released the console to local retailers since March 2017.

In early 2019, Nintendo of Europe signed a partnership with Tel Aviv-based distributor TorGaming Ltd., making them Nintendo's official distributor in Israel. TorGaming began launching their products in the market, including the Nintendo Switch, on March 1, 2019.[67]

Nintendo's Dubai-based distributor, Active Gulf, officially launched the Nintendo Switch in Oman on September 27, 2019.[68]

In April 2019, Nintendo announced a partnership with Chinese conglomerate Tencent to distribute the Nintendo Switch in mainland China. The system would be released on December 10, 2019.[69]

Although Nintendo pulled out of Brazil back in 2015 due to high tariffs, the Nintendo Switch was officially released in Brazil in May 2017 after Nintendo had originally assigned NC Games as their local distributor, which made the launch in Brazil possible.[70] However, NC Games silently went defunct in circa 2019. In August 2020, Nintendo of America announced that they would restart Nintendo Switch imports directly into Brazil,[71] starting on September 18, 2020.[72]

Reception

Announcement / Post-announcement

At its reveal, many of Nintendo's announced partners showed their interest in and praised the Nintendo Switch. Ubisoft CEO Yves Guillemot said that the Nintendo Switch "could again redefine the way we play games."[73] Bethesda announced that they were "trilled" to be a partner for Nintendo Switch, stating that the console "presents exciting opportunities for our studios & fans."[74]

When asked about his thoughts on the Nintendo Switch on Twitter, Phil Spencer, the head of Microsoft's Xbox division, replied by stating, "I'm always impressed with [Nintendo's] ability to state a bold vision and build a product that delivers on that vision."[75] Xbox marketing boss Aaron Greenberg also commented that the Nintendo Switch, "looks like fun!" and praised Nintendo's innovation in the industry.[75] Shuhei Yoshida, then-president of Sony's SIE Worldwide Studios, has said that the Nintendo Switch is "a very unique system," and that it will be "good for core gamers."[76]

Business analysts were more skeptical of the device and Nintendo's direction with the console, with many citing the portable nature of the system as its core selling point and the potential target audience. Dr. Serkan Toto questioned the console's level of innovation and whether or not the Nintendo Switch's hybrid concept would be able to attract a wide enough audience, asking, "who else but die-hard Nintendo fans will buy the Switch?"[77][78] Others were also concerned with other aspects of the console that had yet to be announced at the time, such as the device's battery life, price point, and third-party support.[79]

Within twenty-four hours of its posting, the "First Look at Nintendo Switch" trailer became the most-viewed video on Nintendo of America's YouTube channel[80] and the top trending video on YouTube overall[81], surpassing 10 million views. In an investor's briefing on October 26, the company revealed that the trailer had been viewed more than 23 million times on its official YouTube channels alone, and that reactions were more than 95% positive.[82][83]

Launch

According to SuperData, the Nintendo Switch sold 1.5 million total units worldwide on its first week.[84] SuperData would later report that over 2.4 million units had been sold by the end of March.[85]

In Japan, the Nintendo Switch sold 330,637 units over the weekend of its launch.[86] According to Dengeki, the system sold through 95% of its initial shipment.[87] Within four weeks of the system's release, the Nintendo Switch sold over 500,000 units in Japan, reaching the milestone three weeks faster than the competing PlayStation 4 did, but one week slower than the Wii U.[88]

Without disclosing exact sales figures, Reggie Fils-Aimé has stated that, in North America, the Nintendo Switch had the highest two-day launch sales of any Nintendo console[89], and was still the best-selling after five days.[90] According to SuperData, exact US sales of the Nintendo Switch on its first week were around 500,000 units.[84] Nintendo would later announce that, according to NPD Group sales data, the Nintendo Switch sold 906,000 units by the end of March, placing the system as one of the fastest-selling of any Nintendo system and one of the fastest-selling systems of all time.[91][92] The Nintendo Switch was also the best-selling game hardware in March 2017.[93]

The Nintendo Switch also became the best-selling Nintendo console at launch in Europe.[94] In the UK, the Nintendo Switch sold 80,000 units over the weekend of its launch.[95] In France, over 105,000 systems were sold at launch, selling better than any other console at launch.[96] By the end of March 2017, the console had sold over 137,185 units in the UK.[97]

Post-launch

In December 2017, it was announced that, according to Nintendo's internal sales figures, the Nintendo Switch had sold over 10 million units worldwide.[98] In the United States, the console was announced to have sold over 4.8 million units in ten months, making it the fastest-selling console of all time in the region, beating the Wii.[99][100]

Hardware revisions

Nintendo Switch Lite

NintendoWiki logo.png  Main article: Nintendo Switch Lite 

The Nintendo Switch Lite is the first major revision for the Nintendo Switch hardware, released in September 2019. Designed to be a purely portable, handheld model of the Nintendo Switch, the device features integrated buttons and improved battery life, while lacking the ability to connect to a television.[101]

HAC-001(-01)

In July 2019, it was confirmed that a revision of the original Nintendo Switch hardware, model number HAC-001(-01), would be entering production.[102] Released in August 2019 in most regions and in September 2019 in Europe, the updated model uses a smaller, more power-efficient variant of the Tegra X1 and more efficient LPDDR4X RAM chips that allow for improved battery life, lasting approximately 4.5 to 9 hours undocked depending on the software.[103][104]

Nintendo Switch (OLED model)

NintendoWiki logo.png  Main article: Nintendo Switch (OLED model) 

The Nintendo Switch (OLED model) is the second major revision for the Nintendo Switch hardware, released in October 2021. Its main selling point is the new wider OLED display, a new adjustable stand for tabletop mode, enhanced audio, increased storage capacity, and a new dock sporting a built-in LAN port.[105]

Gallery

  • The Nintendo Switch in "TV Mode" with Joy-Con attached to the Joy-Con Grip.

  • The Nintendo Switch in "Handheld Mode".

  • Separating the Nintendo Switch from the Nintendo Switch Dock.

  • Using the Joy-Con controllers for multiplayer with two Nintendo Switch units.

  • The various hardware and functions of the Nintendo Switch.

External links

Niwalogo.png
Nintendo Switch on other NIWA Wikis:
ARMS Institute logo.png
 ARMS Institute
Bulbapedia logo.png
 Bulbapedia
Fire Emblem Wiki logo.png
 Fire Emblem Wiki
Inkipedia logo.png
 Inkipedia
Lylat Wiki logo.png
 Lylat Wiki
Metroid Wiki logo.png
 Metroid Wiki
Nookipedia logo.png
 Nookipedia
Pikipedia logo.png
 Pikipedia
SmashWiki logo.png
 SmashWiki
Starfy Wiki logo.png
 Starfy Wiki
StrategyWiki logo.png
 StrategyWiki
Super Mario Wiki logo.png
 Super Mario Wiki
WikiBound logo.png
 WikiBound
WiKirby logo.png
 WiKirby
Xeno Series Wiki logo.png
 Xeno Series Wiki
Zelda Wiki logo.png
 Zelda Wiki

References

  1. ↑ Top Selling Title Sales Units. Nintendo. Retrieved March 31, 2017.
  2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 Switch supports up to 256 GB microSD cards. Nintendo Everything (January 13, 2017). Retrieved January 13, 2017.
  3. ↑ 3.0 3.1 NVIDIA Technology Powers New Home Gaming System, Nintendo Switch. Nvidia (October 20, 2016). Retrieved October 20, 2016.
  4. ↑ 4.0 4.1 Nintendo Switch Teardown. Tech Insights (March 3, 2017). Retrieved June 3, 2021.
  5. ↑ 5.00 5.01 5.02 5.03 5.04 5.05 5.06 5.07 5.08 5.09 5.10 Nintendo Switch Presentation 2017. Nintendo (YouTube; January 12, 2017). Retrieved January 13, 2017.
  6. ↑ 6.0 6.1 Switch and Play 게임 생활을 보다 액티브하게! 한국닌텐도, 「Nintendo Switch™」 12월 1일 국내 정식 발매 결정. Nintendo of Korea (September 20, 2017). Retrieved September 20, 2017.
  7. ↑ Dedicated Video Game Sales Units. Nintendo. Retrieved June 30, 2017.
  8. ↑ 8.0 8.1 8.2 Consolidated Results for the Six Months Ended September 30, 2021 and 2022. Nintendo (November 8, 2022). Retrieved December 26, 2022.
  9. ↑ Reggie calls the Nintendo NX a home console. Wii U Daily (June 19, 2015). Retrieved June 16, 2016.
  10. ↑ PR - First Glimpse of Nintendo NX Coming Tomorrow at 7 a.m. PT. GoNintendo (October 19, 2016). Retrieved October 19, 2016.
  11. ↑ 11.0 11.1 11.2 11.3 Nintendo Switch world premier demonstrates new entertainment experiences from a home gaming system. Nintendo (October 20, 2016). Retrieved October 20, 2016.
  12. ↑ Earnings Release: Fiscal Year Ended March 31, 2016. Nintendo (April 27, 2016). Retrieved June 16, 2016.
  13. ↑ 13.0 13.1 13.2 13.3 First Look at Nintendo Switch. YouTube (Nintendo; October 20, 2016). Retrieved October 20, 2016.
  14. ↑ 14.0 14.1 Nintendo talk about the origins of the Switch concept. Japanese Nintendo (December 24, 2017). Retrieved December 24, 2017.
  15. ↑ 15.0 15.1 15.2 15.3 Nintendo to Gamers: Try Staring at Each Other, Not the Screen. The Wall Street Journal (January 16, 2017). Retrieved January 16, 2017.
  16. ↑ 16.0 16.1 16.2 Nintendo's Big Switch: Q&A With President Tatsumi Kimishima. Bloomberg (October 28, 2016). Retrieved October 28, 2016.
  17. ↑ Nintendo on Switch's name, goal with the announcement trailer. Nintendo Everything (December 6, 2016). Retrieved December 7, 2016.
  18. ↑ 18.0 18.1 March 17, Wed. 2015 Presentation Title. Nintendo (March 17, 2015). Retrieved June 16, 2015.
  19. ↑ No NX Reveal at E3, Nintendo Says. GameSpot (May 11, 2015). Retrieved October 22, 2016.
  20. ↑ 20.0 20.1 Nintendo President: NX Is Not the Successor "to the Wii U nor to the 3DS". IGN (May 16, 2016). Retrieved June 16, 2016.
  21. ↑ Nintendo NX Will "Change The Concept" Of Home Console And Handheld Gaming, Says Pokémon Company President. Nintendo Life (September 20, 2016). Retrieved September 20, 2016.
  22. ↑ Financial Results Briefing for Fiscal Year Ended March 2016 - Q & A. Nintendo (April 28, 2016). Retrieved October 24, 2016.
  23. ↑ Wii U was expected to sell 100 million units. GamesIndustry.biz (July 7, 2016). Retrieved January 10, 2017.
  24. ↑ No, Nintendo's NX Will Not Be Running On Android. Forbes (June 2, 2015). Retrieved October 22, 2016.
  25. ↑ Report: Nintendo's fear of imitators kept NX out of E3. Polygon (June 29, 2016). Retrieved October 22, 2016.
  26. ↑ Nintendo Didn't Show NX at E3 Because It Was Worried About Copycats, Says Miyamoto. GameSpot (June 29, 2016). Retrieved October 22, 2016).
  27. ↑ Q&A: 'Skyrim' Creator Todd Howard Talks Switch, VR and Why We'll Have to Wait for Another 'Elder Scrolls'. Glixel (November 21, 2016). Retrieved November 21, 2016.
  28. ↑ Nintendo: Switch is a home gaming system ‘first and foremost’. Polygon (October 20, 2016). Retrieved October 21, 2016.
  29. ↑ Nintendo Switch event to reveal further details in mid-January. Polygon (October 26, 2016). Retrieved December 9, 2016.
  30. ↑ Nine Months Financial Results Briefing for Fiscal Year Ending March 2017. Nintendo (January 31, 2017). Retrieved January 31, 2017.
  31. ↑ Nintendo's Boss Promises the Switch Won’t Have the NES Classic's Supply Issues. Wired (January 13, 2017). Retrieved February 27, 2017.
  32. ↑ 32.0 32.1 Financial Results Briefing for Fiscal Year Ending March 2017. Nintendo (April 28, 2017). Retrieved April 28, 2017.
  33. ↑ Nintendo Using Costly Air Freight To Meet Demand For Switch Faster. Nintendo Life (May 1, 2017). Retrieved May 1, 2017.
  34. ↑ Outline of consolidated financial results for the six months ended September 30, 2017 and consolidated earnings forecast for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2018. Nintendo (October 30, 2017). Retrieved November 9, 2017.
  35. ↑ Nintendo president expects Switch sales to match the Wii. Gamasutra (February 2, 2017). Retrieved February 27, 2017.
  36. ↑ 36.0 36.1 36.2 36.3 36.4 36.5 36.6 36.7 36.8 Technical specs on the official Nintendo Switch website. Retrieved June 3, 2021.
  37. ↑ Immersion and Nintendo Enter into Agreement to Bring Immersion's TouchSense Technology to the Nintendo Switch System. Immersion Corporation (January 13, 2017). Retrieved June 3, 2021.
  38. ↑ 38.0 38.1 38.2 Nintendo Switch Teardown. iFixit (March 3, 2017). Retrieved June 3, 2021.
  39. ↑ 39.0 39.1 Nintendo Switch: Nintendo confirms lack of retro-compatiblity… for physical media, note about battery life. Perfectly Nintendo (October 21, 2016). Retrieved October 21, 2016.
  40. ↑ 40.0 40.1 40.2 40.3 40.4 40.5 40.6 Nintendo Answers (And Avoids) Our Switch Questions. Kotaku (January 19, 2017). Retrieved January 19, 2017.
  41. ↑ Here's how you can take and share screenshots on the Nintendo Switch. VG247 (February 23, 2017). Retrieved February 23, 2017.
  42. ↑ I hit my screenshot limit... r/NintendoSwitch (March 17, 2017). Retrieved March 19, 2017.
  43. ↑ Switch has a set number of screenshots that can be held on the system and microSD card. Nintendo Everything (March 19, 2017). Retrieved March 19, 2017.
  44. ↑ There is a limit to how many videos you can save. 100 on internal memory, and 1000 on a MicroSD card. r/NintendoSwitch (September 29, 2019). Retrieved December 26, 2022.
  45. ↑ Video: Yep, When You Buy Loads of Games the Nintendo Switch Has An Extra Menu. Nintendo Life (March 17, 2017). Retrieved March 25, 2017.
  46. ↑ 46.0 46.1 46.2 Nintendo Switch's storage could be expanded with USB drives. Gamereactor UK (January 13, 2017). Retrieved January 14, 2017.
  47. ↑ microSD Card FAQ. Nintendo Support. Retrieved June 3, 2021.
  48. ↑ 48.0 48.1 48.2 48.3 48.4 Nintendo Switch online service on the official Nintendo Switch website. Retrieved January 22, 2017.
  49. ↑ Nintendo Switch - Official Website - Nintendo's New Video Game System. Nintendo. Retrieved October 20, 2016.
  50. ↑ Nintendo Direct 4.12.2017. Nintendo (YouTube; April 12, 2017). Retrieved April 12, 2017.
  51. ↑ Nintendo announces new adjustable charging stand for Nintendo Switch. Nintendo (May 9, 2018). Retrieved May 9, 2018.
  52. ↑ Nintendo Switch day-one update takes less than a minute to download. Polygon (March 2, 2017). Retrieved March 2, 2017.
  53. ↑ What to expect from Switch's day one update. Nintendo Everything (February 25, 2017). Retrieved February 25, 2017.
  54. ↑ Nintendo Switch System Updates and Change History. Nintendo Support. Retrieved March 27, 2017.
  55. ↑ Switch firmware version 2.2.0 now available. Nintendo Everything (April 17, 2017). Retrieved April 17, 2017.
  56. ↑ Switch - Firmware update 2.3.0 available. GoNintendo (May 15, 2017). Retrieved May 15, 2017.
  57. ↑ Nintendo Switch OS Version 3.0.0 Is Now Live. Nintendo Life (June 19, 2017). Retrieved July 3, 2017.
  58. ↑ Switch Firmware Update 3.0.1 Is Live, Fixes Battery Charge Indicator Issue. Nintendo Life (August 1, 2017). Retrieved August 2, 2017.
  59. ↑ [1]. Nintendo Life (September 6, 2017). Retrieved September 6, 2017.
  60. ↑ 60.00 60.01 60.02 60.03 60.04 60.05 60.06 60.07 60.08 60.09 60.10 60.11 60.12 60.13 60.14 60.15 60.16 60.17 60.18 60.19 60.20 60.21 60.22 60.23 60.24 60.25 60.26 60.27 60.28 60.29 60.30 60.31 60.32 60.33 60.34 60.35 60.36 60.37 60.38 60.39 60.40 60.41 60.42 60.43 60.44 60.45 60.46 60.47 60.48 60.49 https://en-americas-support.nintendo.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/43314
  61. ↑ "Nintendo Switch en Argentina: ¡Precio y fecha de lanzamiento oficial confirmados!". Cultura Geek (in Spanish) - Preci, Augusto Finocchiaro (July 24, 2017).
  62. ↑ "Switch and Play 게임 생활을 보다 액티브하게! 한국닌텐도, 「Nintendo Switch™」 12월 1일 국내 정식 발매 결정". Nintendo of Korea official press release (in Korean). September 20, 2017.
  63. ↑ "Switch and Play 讓遊戲生活更有趣味 「Nintendo Switch」 2017年12月1日、NTD9,780(含稅) 在台灣發售". Nintendo (Hong Kong) Ltd. official press release (in Traditional Chinese). September 20, 2017.
  64. ↑ "Nintendo Switch - Official Philippines Version will be released today!". Maxsoft's official Twitter. November 30, 2018.
  65. ↑ Nintendo Switch วางจำหน่าย：29 มีนาคม 2019 (ศุกร์). Official Nintendo website for Thailand.
  66. ↑ Nintendo Switch Released:17 January 2020, Friday. Official Nintendo website for Malaysia.
  67. ↑ "לראשונה בישראל – תור גיימינג משיקה את נינטנדו בארץ ביבוא רשמי". IGN Israel (in Hebrew). March 12, 2019.
  68. ↑ "The Nintendo Switch is officially launched today in Oman!!". Active Gulf's official Facebook. September 27, 2019.
  69. ↑ "Nintendo Switch To Officially Launch In China Next Week". Nintendo Life. December 4, 2019.
  70. ↑ "Jogos de Nintendo Switch e 3DS serão distribuídos no Brasil". Vice (in Portuguese) - Falcão, Pedro (May 25, 2017).
  71. ↑ "Nintendo is bringing the Switch to Brazil at last". Engadget. August 19, 2020.
  72. ↑ "The Nintendo Switch goes on sale in Brazil on September 18th". Engadget. September 7, 2020.
  73. ↑ Developers Respond to Nintendo Switch. IGN (October 20, 2016). Retrieved October 21, 2016.
  74. ↑ Bethesda Bethesda says they're 'thrilled' to be working on Switch. GoNintendo (October 20, 2016). Retrieved October 21, 2016.
  75. ↑ 75.0 75.1 Xbox Bosses Praise The "Bold Vision" Of Nintendo Switch. Nintendo Life (October 21, 2016). Retrieved October 21, 2016.
  76. ↑ Sony says Switch is "unique" & "interesting", believe it to be "good for core gamers", talk Nintendo mobile efforts. GoNintendo (December 6, 2016). Retrieved December 7, 2016.
  77. ↑ Nintendo Stock Value Drops 6.5 Percent After Switch Reveal, Some Analysts Doubt Its Appeal. GameSpot (October 21, 2016). Retrieved October 21, 2016.
  78. ↑ Nintendo Switch Console Is Met With Skepticism From Investors. The New York Times (October 21, 2016). Retrieved October 21, 2016.
  79. ↑ "Who else but die-hard Nintendo fans will buy the Switch?" GamesIndustry.biz (October 20, 2016). Retrieved October 21, 2016.
  80. ↑ Nintendo Switch preview trailer becomes most watched video on NoA YouTube, surpasses 10 million views. GoNintendo (October 21, 2016). Retrieved October 21, 2016.
  81. ↑ The Nintendo Switch Reveal is the Top Trending YouTube Video With Over 10 Million Views in One Day. Gamenesia (October 21, 2016). Retrieved October 22, 2016.
  82. ↑ Switch reveal viewed by over 23 million people, reactions 95% positive. GoNintendo (October 26, 2016). Retrieved October 26, 2016.
  83. ↑ Semi-Annual Financial Results Briefing for Fiscal Year Ending March 2017. Nintendo (October 27, 2016). Retrieved October 27, 2016.
  84. ↑ 84.0 84.1 Nintendo Switch has sold 1.5m worldwide - SuperData. GamesIndustry.biz (March 14, 2017). Retrieved March 14, 2017.
  85. ↑ SuperData: Nintendo sells 2.4 million Switch consoles worldwide in first month, above original forecast. VentureBeat (April 14, 2017). Retrieved April 14, 2017.
  86. ↑ Nintendo Switch、発売3日間で国内推定販売台数33.1万台を記録 『ゼルダの伝説　ブレス オブ ザ ワイルド』国内推定販売本数は19万3060本. Famitsu (March 7, 2017). Retrieved March 7, 2017.
  87. ↑ 週間ソフト販売ランキング TOP50（集計期間：2017年2月27日～3月5日）. Dengeki (March 9, 2017). Retrieved March 11, 2017.
  88. ↑ Nintendo Switch Took Only Four Weeks to Sell Over 500,000 Units in Japan Against Seven Weeks for PS4. DualShockers (March 29, 2017). Retrieved March 29, 2017.
  89. ↑ Nick Wingfield on Twitter (March 6, 2017). Retrieved March 6, 2017.
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  91. ↑ Nintendo Switch, Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild Launch Sales Numbers Revealed. IGN (April 13, 2017). Retrieved April 13, 2017.
  92. ↑ NoA PR - Nintendo Switch Becomes the Fastest-Selling Video Game System in Nintendo History. GoNintendo (April 13, 2017). Retrieved April 13, 2017.
  93. ↑ NPD Group: PS4 Outsells Xbox One During March 2017 While Switch Takes Top Spot. Game Revolution (April 13, 2017). Retrieved April 13, 2017.
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  96. ↑ La Nintendo Switch bat tous les records de ventes en France. Le Fiargo (March 7, 2017). Retrieved March 7, 2017.
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  102. ↑ Nintendo announces new model of the original Switch with longer battery life. Nintendo Everything (July 17, 2019). Retrieved July 17, 2019.
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  104. ↑ We Tore Down the New Nintendo Switch. What's Different? iFixit (August 19, 2019). Retrieved June 3, 2021.
  105. ↑ Nintendo Switch (OLED model). Nintendo (July 6, 2021). Retrieved July 6, 2021.


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