Blog

Mar 12, 2025

New Patent Suggests a Major Upgrade Coming to the Nintendo Switch 2

One of the biggest problems with the Nintendo Switch was its overly complicated voice chat system. However, a new patent filed by Nintendo reveals that it might integrate voice chat into the Nintendo

One of the biggest problems with the Nintendo Switch was its overly complicated voice chat system. However, a new patent filed by Nintendo reveals that it might integrate voice chat into the Nintendo Switch 2’s operating system, so you won’t have to reach for your phone to chat with other Switch 2 users.

The patent (spotted by WCCFTech) filed last month covers a system for implementing proximity chat in games. This feature lets nearby players in a game hear and speak to you through your headset. So, if you wanted an easy way to talk trash in Mario Kart 9 after slamming someone with a blue shell when the Switch 2 launches, this could be big news for you.

WCCFTech also suggests, based on the patent, that a more robust integrated chat system could be introduced in Nintendo’s next console. Voice chat functionality on an OS level means you’ll be able to chat with other Switch 2 users the same way Xbox and PlayStation owners on their respective platforms, without the need for third-party apps like Discord.

Current Switch users have to jump through hoops to chat with their friends online, as it requires them to use the Nintendo Switch Online App on their phones. However, some games like Fortnite offer an easier way of chatting with your teammates by simply plugging in a headset. You’re out of luck if you want to talk with a buddy who is playing a different game.

Of course, we should note that just because Nintendo filed the patent doesn’t mean that proximity chat is coming to the Switch 2 at launch or even at all. Still, it’s good to see that Nintendo is, at the very least, thinking about it, and I’m keeping my fingers crossed that a better chat comes to the console.

The good news is that we won’t have to wait too long for more information since the Switch 2 Direct is happening on April 2, where we expect to see a release date and pricing and, hopefully, reveal what the mysterious button ‘C’ button on the controller does.

Nintendo Switch 2

Get the best tech, science, and culture news in your inbox daily.

News from the future, delivered to your present.

Please select your desired newsletters and submit your email to upgrade your inbox.

A Nintendo patent from Japan describes the Switch 2 JoyCon’s ‘sensor for mouse operation.’

The ultra-rare Space World Nintendo GameCube was one of the first prototypes of the console revealed back in 2000.

If you're like us, you may also find a Switch 2 experience rejection from Nintendo in your inbox.

The peripheral makers continue to leak potential Switch 2 details, but Bayonetta lead dev thinks they should have ‘poo on… their shoes.’

Nintendo’s barebones Switch 2 reveal along with its black-on-black design makes me worried the handheld runs too close to the Steam Deck.

The Nintendo Switch 2 has redesigned JoyCons and a kickstand. Most, but not all, original Switch games will be compatible.

Best of CES 2025 Awards ➜