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.
English (US) ·