Less than a year into its life cycle and it's safe to say Nintendo's hybrid console is going from strength to strength. Its library of games is expanding and with a new online infrastructure set to arrive sometime in 2018, the handheld/tabletop wonder is set to mega evolve yet again.
There is, however, one glaring omission in Nintendo's plan and it's one we really want to see addressed in the next 12 months: apps and third-party software. With Switch's user base growing at an impressive rate, this really is the time for Nintendo to build on that momentum and give it the depth of multimedia it's always deserved. So we've gathered together some of our most wanted apps that would be right at home on your Home screen.
A bespoke internet browser
So, technically, Switch does have an internet browser of sorts already coded into its OS, but it's not one designed for normal browsing. Nintendo currently uses a version of Access' NetFront Browser NX, a low-memory usage software that's ideal for handheld devices, smart TVs in in-car displays.
What we really need is a bespoke browser that's far more powerful and built with regular surfing and access in mind. Whether this would be a partnership with an existing piece of software (such as Mozilla Firefox) or a completely new app (which would give Nintendo far more control and remove the need for licensing) remains to be seen, but the groundwork is already there in your device.
Much like the previous entry, you can actually access your Facebook page from your Nintendo Switch, but it’s more of a technical bypass to a hidden feature rather than a full-blown app. So rather than being locked to a back-end browser that's not optimised for general use, Switch would benefit hugely from an official Facebook program.
It’s an easy sell, too. Social media sharing for your screenshots (and your videos) is already coded into Switch, which means a certain level of co-operation with the likes of Facebook and Twitter already exists. So what could be better than playing Super Mario Odyssey, hitting the Home Button and instantly jumping into your timeline?
Twitch
As of writing, you can stream gameplay live to Switch or record clips through third-party software but it requires you to connect a capture card to your Switch and into a decent enough PC. It’s doable, but it’s still a constant reminder of just how well other platforms have woven almost instantaneous broadcasting into their systems.
There are plenty of potential platforms to include - and we’ll cover a second shortly - but Twitch is the easily the most popular. The toxicity found in some parts of its community, and the antics of some of its biggest stars could potential scupper such a partnership, but even an app that simply supports broadcasting would be a huge leap forwards.
Discord
Since Nintendo Switch doesn’t support voice chat of any kind, users have had to find alternative means (most of which involves using headsets that support both wired connections and wireless functionality to your PC or smart device). But it’s just not good enough - if Ninty isn’t going to provide a bespoke service, then it really needs to open up the doorway to third-party apps.
Discord is fast becoming the go-to platform for text-based and VoIP chat on PC, so there’s a strong argument to see it supported on Switch. What better way to link up with your friends than on your server, switching between games and apps without ever breaking the conversation? The alternative is a potential use of VoIP via a Nintendo app, but that doesn't sound like a very user friendly experience.
Crunchyroll
If you love your anime, then you almost certainly know about the wonders of Crunchyroll. For those still looking bemused at their screen, it’s essentially Netflix for anime and includes some of the biggest series including Bleach, Naruto Shippuden and many more.
While the likes of Netflix does have a decent (and rapidly growing) library of Japanese animation, Crunchyroll is on another level. And, considering the strong crossover with all the JRPG and the Japanese-developed games already on Switch, the Venn diagram of Switch/Crunchyroll users has a huge crossover. It might struggle against Netflix’s mainstream dominance, but it suits Switch down to a tee.
YouTube
We mentioned another streaming service, and here it is: the all powerful YouTube. It seems a given at this stage considering the sheer influence of the platform; plus, the stage for it has already been set by other video apps. NicoNico, for instance, is a Japan-exclusive program, and is effectively a region-specific alternative to YouTube.
Then there’s the US-only launch of Hulu. The streaming service’s arrival on a western version of Switch was a watershed moment back in November 2017, and its instant popularity proves there’s a huge market for video consumption on Nintendo’s new console. The only real roadblock is Nintendo Creators Program, which could potentially lock out the ability to stream on YT.
There’s no way we could include a list of apps for Nintendo Switch and not include the world of tweets, likes and GIF overloads. Twitter has become as much a part of our digital lives as Facebook, perhaps more so in recent years, so its inclusion is going to be on everyone’s wish list.
Much like FB, Twitter already has a certain level of connectivity with Switch thanks to the ability to share your screenshots with your followers. Our only concern would be getting a version suitably optimised for Switch - other versions on platforms such as iOS have been notoriously buggy in the past, so we’d want Twitter to hold off until it’s nailed one for Nintendo.
Hulu
Okay, so this one’s a bit cheeky as it’s already out in the US, but for us Europeans we’ve yet to experience the wonder of video streaming on our Joy-Con friendly console. It’s seeded well in the US due to its support for live sports, pro wrestling and other content, but there’s still plenty of other programming that would work well outside North America.
Whatever the form it might take, the fact it already exists is cause for celebration. Imagine being able to watch sports, episodes of your TV show and access live broadcast streams in between matches of Splatoon 2 or DOOM? Switch may not have been envisioned as a multimedia device, but an app such as Hulu could HELP transform it into one.
Netflix
Okay, so if we’re including Hulu and Crunchyroll then there’s no way we can leave out the granddaddy of streaming services. Netflix is already available on almost every device out there, so it stands to reason that the other Big N will have its sight set on one of the fastest selling and most ‘in vogue’ consoles on the market.
There’s a good chance most of you reading this already access Netflix on some form of portable device, be it a smartphone or tablet, but imagine being able to access all of Switch’s incredible games and Netflix’s library from the same place? And, just like YouTube and Amazon Instant Video, Netflix has already featured on Wii U, so the relationship and the concept is already there for the taking.
A proper Activity Log
This might seem like a strange one, but hear us out: if there's one app we used almost as much as our actual games on 3DS, it was the humble Activity Log. Without any form of achievement/trophy system, there was a tangible joy to tracking your game stats to see which one was in gold, silver or bronze position.
There is technically an in-game time tracker coded into your personal Switch profile, but it’s pretty crude as it a) takes 10 days to present its data and b) it rounds off your progress to the nearest five hour mark. It’s worked well enough for the time being, but much like Switch’s online infrastructure and eShop, it needs a serious overhaul to make it far more in-depth and reactive.
So you've heard what we think, but which apps do you want to see on Nintendo Switch? Are there any you disagree with, or anyone we've missed completely - let us know below and get the conversation flowing...
Comments 171
The biggest app missing for me is a web browser. The one on the Wii U is brilliant and I use it all the time. You can play a video on the TV while you continue to browse on the gamepad. It's fast and easy to navigate.
Edit: And as someone just reminded me, when you were stuck in a game, it was handy to hit the HOME button and do a quick search on the internet for the answer.
Youtube
Netflix and YouTube alone would make it the ultimate console; adding web browser makes it the ultimate portable console
Folders for games.
Keep it tidy
Web browser and activity log for sure. I miss the activity log a lot, surprisingly.
I don't really care about or want any of these. I'd probably add Netflix and maybe Crunchyroll if the option were there, but I'm not clamouring after them. Think the social media and Twitch accounts are valuable for games journalists and streamers, but they're not anything I'd use day to day.
Plex would work for me. I'm not really into apps being available though. I'd prefer it to be cleanly about gaming.
You lost me at Facebook and Twitter.
I have most of the apps on like twelve devices in my living room, so I'm not particularly bothered about any of them. The one thing I really, really want is some form of achievement system implemented, hopefully (but probably not) arriving when the online service does.
Just netflix and youtube (and other streaming). Everything is just fluff
We need a weather app.
Also, a pdf or ebook reader.
Netflix would be good, but not essential and I have my phone handy to look up anything online, so don't really need a browser. Just give me games!
Maybe a bit odd, but for me it's the proper Activity log.
I -really- want that one.
The rest - naah.
The only thing I'd really want from that list is the activity log. The TV streaming stuff would be nice but the social media stuff is pointless.
Although I did use the web browser on the Wii U for YouTube and Facebook, I’m now living in a world where my phone, iPad, and TV all do those things much better. As a portable those things don’t work without an internet connection, and on a big screen you can get these things easily with better resolution.
The only real reason to have this stuff on your Switch is so you can use them on the toilet.
Most important is Discord honestly. Voice chat in the Switch is just só bad, and it would help Nintendo a lot. Netflix and a activity log would be nice too, but not necessary.
Crunchyroll, meh. If only it had English overdubs. Everything else mentioned I definitely need on Switch though. The time is now Nintendo!
1. Hyper Killer = GOOGLE !!!
2. Super Killer = Youtube !!
3. Killer = Instagram !
Also, Activity Log like Wii U / 3DS is MUST !
internet browser won't happen because that's how hackers get in the system
Activity Log is the only one I'm interested in.The 3ds version is perfect and am surprised the Switch wasn't already released with one.
Absolutely no interest in Facebook or Twitter and Netflix I have access to on my kindle and Ps4.
Why can't we have the Switch handheld and portrait and play the likes of Mario run, Animal Crossing, and Fire Emblem?
Why make mobile games and a tablet like console and not merge them?
basically I want to my Switch to also function as a tablet so I can use the beautiful touch screen.
How about a Kodi app
A couple of tweaks on the home screen is all that is required.
No apps required and defiantly no browser and chat !!!!!!!!!!!!
I don’t want to see any of these on the Switch. I want to keep it for games, not have it clogged up with social media crap that is on every other device already
YouTube, Netflix, Twitch, Crunchyroll. That's all I want in the way of apps. Facebook, Twitter, Social media without a keyboard isn't worth the trouble, same with a web browser without a mouse. It's fine if we get them, but I am not really interested. It's the video streaming apps I would like to have. .
Oh, and I would enjoy an activity log like we have on 3DS. The Switch is obviously keeping track, so why can't I see my playtimes and play frequencies when we know the system is indeed keeping track of that data?
@mgnoodle So don't download them?
@Mijzelffan The 'browser = hackers' explanation seems clever at first glance, but doesn't make an ounce of sense. The browser is effectively already in there in such a way that anyone with an agenda is going to be able to exploit it if it can be exploited. It's not like hackers are booting up their switches and going "oh fiddlesticks, there's no browser icon! Better go back to getting Doom to run on a thermostat!"
I just read over on Push Square that PS4 owners have been making vigorous use of thier web browsers...
One thing I would love is an adapter which would hold several game cartridges and allow players to switch between games with ease (pun intended)
KODI... That would be awesome (even if it originally was for the XBox)
I've been getting into Pluto.tv lately (mainly for free Rifftrax) and I wouldn't mind seeing it on the Switch.
facebook, twitter ? what for ?
we already have them on mobile and one can share a picture or video with a smartphone
Everything here is all “nice to have” but in no way essential. The Switch’s primary role is to play games and if Nintendo has limited resources, I want that to go towards game development or firmware updates. Any features that enhance gaming experiences are fine.
The biggest waste of time IMHO would be a web browser. I’ve tried those on the PS3, PS Vita, Wii and Wii U and they were all slow and unwieldy. Could have spent half the time picking up my phone and checking it that way. Without interrupting my game in the process.
It's a GAMES console, not a multimedia centre.
The Only "App" i want is Virtual Console, for more GAMES!
Id be happy for it too stick to being games focused rather than some kind of media centre. No harm if they add stuff like this for the people interested though, as long as they dont bog down the lovely speedy OS.
How about the switch stays the way it is, and I’ll just use my phone for everything else? I really don’t understand why everyone wants these apps. Don’t you all have an Apple TV, Roku, or fire stick? Don’t you all have a tablet or phone. Why can’t the Switch just be a video game console?
All I want is the games. I have a smart phone, tablet, and laptop for the media.
Nintendo should really consider an achievement program. Whether it's an app or patched in otherwise, it's past due. Earning "stars" or coins and such for in game achievements is a great idea. Having a prize for these collected achievements, like a free download or eshop currency, would entice us to play more games more often.
YouTube would be good. I find it funny that whenever I want to watch a Nintendo Direct on my TV to get all the latest Switch news, I need to fire up my Wii U to do so.
Other than that I don't need or want any others. Right now the Switch is primarily "mine" because it's just games, and I keep my games in suspended status all the time. The last thing I need is my wife losing my progress in a game so she can watch Real Housewives.
@FX102A
Great post... Sums up my thoughts on the subject perfectly.
I mean who these days doesn't have a phone that can do all of those things anyway that's never out of arms reach
Didn't Damien do an article like this less than a fortnight ago?
I think I would really want a browser on the Switch and technically it is weird that we haven't got one already. Yes, I do know I can just pick up my iPad, but it would be really nice to have a browser in my view, and if you have a browser you technically have all the other multimedia apps too :+).
It is kind of weird that I have to point out to people that aren't that into gaming super much originally that the Switch doesn't have a browser at all, or that you have no way of talking to your friends on the Switch, and not counting the voice chat through the Nintendo Online Service app as I want text chat.
I have some friends from Miiverse that I can't contact in any way anymore, so a simple text/friend chat feature would be nice.
But yeah, we will see how it goes and hopefully we get a way to talk to our Switch friends through text chat soon :+).
I'm really hoping for an achievement system and more robust activity tracking. Netflix would be nice. YouTube is okay. Couldn't care less about web browsers, Facebook, Twitter, etc...
“So what could be better than playing Super Mario Odyssey, hitting the Home Button and instantly jumping into your timeline?”
Lots of things for example, not hitting the home button and carrying on with SMO.
No need for any of this except the improved activity tracker.
Nope, nope, nope and nope. Switch is a game console. One should not want to watch TV and surf the web on it. If you do, You'll need more battery life and other features the Switch can and should not offer.
Better activity tracking is OK, the rest should stay as far away from Switch as possible.
@FX102A I’m with you completely. I have a mobile, Laptop, Fire HD tablet, browser in Smart TV, and an old iPad that can do this £&@“. Games games games. Maybe a simple messanger but that’s it for me. Don’t compromise the GAMES
What the heck do we need Facebook and Twitter for haha. Wouldn't that already be included if we had access to the web browser?
I want a proper image viewer like Photo channel. Many other things (like youtube) would be a welcome plus but not something I really need
Going on a worldtrip next month so for me Youtube and Netflix is a welcome because the screen is bigger than my phone.
An achievement app or something like that is nice to replay games which I have already completed (Zelda, SMO, Mario Kart). With achievements I think I will pick up these games again and put many hours in it to fulfill the achievements.
I don't need a webbroweser or social media apps on it.
Hmm. I don’t need any of those things - never used Facebook or Twitter or Netflix. Probably would’nt use the browser.
However having those pits Switch into competition with the iPad and the host of mid range tablets. If I had them on my Switch I’d probably never buy another iPad (or upgrade even less frequently).
So it’s potentially the difference between 100 million units sold and 200 million units sold. Having them could tip Switch into ‘comfortably the best selling gaming device of all time territory’ and make Nintendo a true giant outside of gaming.
Oh and where is the BBC iPlayer on your list (& the other UK specific apps like ITVs player, 4OD & Skys app etc.). That’s the biggest thing holding the Apple TV back.
The browser on the Wii U was nice for when you wanted to post a screenshot somewhere. Suspended software, both the TV image and the GamePad image, were always traded like screenshots on a drive, that you could easily upload to any site with a "browse" button.
Without a similar feature on Switch, a browser would be sort of useless to me.
I wouldn't want to waste my Switch's battery on this stuff. That's what my Shield tablet and phone are for. I love that Switch is just for gaming. No need to make it a multimedia device, when most of us already have that many times over.
How about the Parental Controls app being on the Switch!?
I want the accurate tracker. I really enjoyed the Wii U tracker. Something like that would be great.
Hulu as a service is not available anywhere other than the United States and Japan, and the latter doesn't even have all perks the American counterpart provides. Saying that the Hulu app should launch in Europe does not make sense as long as Hulu in general is not accessible from any other country unless you live in an American military base.
I agree with all of them but for me personally, I want YouTube and Crunchyroll the most. The internet browser on the Wii U was slower than my other devices so if the Switch's browser is equally fast if not faster I'd rush to use it too. Not to mention Discord too, although I don't actively use it for gaming.
That's fine if you don't want these, you aren't the general audience, if the majority of Switch owners were on this site, I'm sure the people running it would be very happy, but they aren't. These are things any device should have, really.
Anyways, Crunchyroll is so 2016. It's about their new service, VRV, now.
@Darthroseman VRV is not available outside the United States. Also, you don't get a lot of anime on VRV like on Crunchyroll, which is available worldwide.
YouTube, Twitch, Discord and a properly fleshed out browser may be the only things I think would be widely used, but Twitch and Discord are the only things that would be REQUIRED to be used ON the Switch. I have an iPad with me most of the time + my phone, but I can’t stream my gameplay on Twitch from my iPad and Discord since I don’t want to use a 2nd device for live voice chate during my gameplay either.
I’ll take the activity log. No need for any of the rest. Why clutter the system with stuff I have other devices for?
I don't need them
I don't want any of these apps on my switch,that's not why I got one.
Netflix; everything else I'd rather use on a laptop because typing.
Hope everything from this list shows up on the switch soon rather then later
I'd like to see the ability to make game icons smaller to fit more on one screen, like 3DS has. I'm sure you won't be able to make them as small as 3DS does, since you are not using a stylus for selecting, but still would be nice to cram more titles on screen.
Noooope, I have a Switch as a gaming console and nothing else. I have enough access to any of these from other devices. This seeming need to have all this multimedia function on a console is silly. It takes away from the core experience of having a gaming console in my opinion.
@Wyld3Ang3l 3DS has a browser, Netflix, Hulu and YouTube.....and I don't think anyone would say that they take away from 3DS's core experience. Just don't install apps you don't want to use.
Plex, please. Y'all might be ok with the fickle beast that is Netflix but they get rid of more movies and shows each month that you care about than they add, so we use Plex where once we add something it stays. Used DVDs and blu-rays are cheap.
The switch should not have any of these most if not everyone that has a switch also has a smartphone and/or a tablet that can do all of these what's the point of adding them to the switch?
@AlphaElite while I totally agree with you on that I’m more commenting on the demand for these apps. When did we get away from the core of what gaming is to the level that people will actually consider wether or not to buy a system based on social media and app comparability.
I never used the streaming apps on Wii U because the OS was agonizingly slow, but the lightning-fast load times on Switch have cemented it as my go-to for Hulu, at least. Bring on Netflix, YouTube and Amazon Video and I can retire my Apple TV. I keep misplacing that tiny silver remote, anyway.
While I don’t need it, I can understand the want for streaming services. I can understand the browser, even though I use the phone for gaming help . But Facebook is not needed at all. As if people are addicted to social media already, do we need to be able to check in from whatever game you are playing?
Personally, I wouldn't mind any of these coming. I remember at the reveal a lot of people on the internet talked about how they would love to have a pc with this form factor. The Switch is a gaming console first and foremost, but there is a lot of potential here.
Personally, I would want YouTube and Netflix. Discord would be a good answer to the voice chat frustrations. Plex and Rainway weren't mentioned but they would be amazing.
Netflix and YouTube, please.
The thing is that the User Interface MUST be revised to accommodate displaying new apps in a manageable way. My UI is already a mess from having 2 dozen games or so, which is not a lot.
@SimplyCinnamon53 Nope no Apple TV, Roku or Firestick and my phone is tiny so no good for watching these things. What an odd assumption to make. I do have a Switch though. Currently I have to switch to my PS4 to use these apps, but it sure would be handier to have them on Switch.
I mean, it's no bad thing to have the option. You don't have to download them. You don't have to use them. It's not going to take up memory on your system or drain your battery or have any negative impact on you at all. It'll merely sweeten the experience for others.
I don't want any of those things besides:
Discord (Nintendo's voice chat system is garbage)
Proper Activity Tracker
The rest I have my phone for things like:
FB
Youtube
Google
Netflix (it's on every other device imaginable, you have better ways to view this content guys...)
Twitter (just ugh)
Etc.
This thing isn't a mobile phone or a computer, it's a console. We need VC way before you add the ability to watch Netflix on your 10th device you own.
Can I be the voice of descent here? I don't want any of these apps. I like that the switch does not have them. If I want to use any of these I have a phone, a tablet and a laptop
I like that the switch is purely for games and that is all. It makes it special everytime I turn it on.
What I really want is a proper online component with voice chat. Better friends lists etc. Also a good virtual console.
Well that and GTA.
Am I the only one who thinks this way?
Nintendo should look into partnering, or allowing to connect my Nintendo account with Instagram, especially because of the awesome use the camera feature in Odyssey.
Sharing pictures and video on Instagram is like the core of what that social media is intended for, and it's the only one I use. Would be cool
No. Switch is selling really well and Nintendo knows what it is doing. If it feels that meaningless apps are a waste of time / resources / space on the Switch / will slow it down / will cause loading waiting times / introduce all sorts of bugs or security problems / a million other reasons , then they shouldn't. It's a game machine. That's why people like it.
I always love when people say they don't want optional stuff like that and that's why nobody should get it.
Social stuff I don't care for, but YouTube, Netflix, a browser, a chat app, etc are a must.
It'd also add the ability to play audio and video files. One for custom soundtracks, the other to watch movies on without having to lug a tablet around.
I love it when people say 'I don't want/need streaming apps for my TV because I watch them on my tiny phone screen'.
The truth is that Nintendo released a featureless console and defenders are like 'I prefer a car with no heater, besides my house has a heater.'
Do I really wanna tweet on my switch while playing super mario run on my phone. It should be the other way round. Just easier
I don't get all the people who say these would slow the Switch down. Like... they're apps? You don't have to download them if you don't want them? The only one that might is the browser, but that's questionable at best. Throw the apps on. I won't use any of them besides a few streaming ones (and MAYBE Discord), but there's zero reason not to have them.
To the people who say that those things are already on phones and tablets and why one could want them on Switch, I hate using phones and tablets because they don't have phisical buttons, if I want a multimedia app I want it on Switch because Switch have physical buttons and d-pad by default both in portable mode and of course when you use it on tv. Also it is more convenient to have it on the same device I have my favourite games too.
I don't use apps that are interesting for me on my smartphone because I hate touch screen controls so I don't enjoy them as I would on Switch.
The only one of those that I'd like to have is Discord so I can properly use voice chat. The rest I can already use on apps on my TV and phone
I can see why discord is wanted, but the rest? How many devices do you have capable of streaming? Why would you want a WiFi only device to be able to do the same? Use your cellphone or tablet!
I really just want Netflix and Youtube. Don’t need social media or even web browser. If Nindendo adds those things and other people want and use them, good for them. I just really mostly want Netflix. If I waste my own battery on Netflix and processor that’s my own problem.
We all have phones and most have tablets and laptops to use these services as well, but The switch is a tablet and it is a home console and every tablet and home console has these apps and has benefited from them greatly. It is a no-brainer. The console has been out for almost a year now and it is gaining popularity. It needs to come soon. I use my PS4 for Netflix and use my WiiU for Amazon Prime. What in God's name is Nintendo thinking?
@LUIGITORNADO Because my Switch dock is already permantly hooked to the TV. Other hdmi cords get switched between other devices. As far as in portable, Netflix allows temporary downloads for almost half it’s content. I have more free space on my micro sd card on Switch than I do on my iphone. And a much larger screen that doesn’t get smeared with oily fingerprints. And for some people, preserving their phone’s battery on the go might be more important that the battery life of their game console. It’s always good to give options. Not all Nintendo users are exactly the same.
@audiobrainiac Need a funimation app then
Yes Crunchyroll please
There is no way I’m wasting my battery on Netflix or any other app for that matter! Games only for me.
I'm not hopeful about a fully functional media player but an app to listen to mp3 would be nice... How else will I listen to my favorite Nintendo soundtracks? My smartphone? Come on!
Oh and Spotify would be nice, too... Ummm... Flipnote or a drawing-animating software?
Come on! These are all the basic stuff we had/have on 3ds!
For me, part of the joy of the Switch is that it’s a dedicated game console. I don’t want social media, browsers and streaming services muddying the waters. I would like an Acitivity Log, some kind of voice chat option and an easier way to find and add friends. I also wouldn’t mind seeing Nintendo try something like Miiverse again (Switchverse?).
I'll take all those apps and then some. If it hasn't been said already, I'd like to add some music streaming like Spotify.
Discord is all I can see me using as current chat optipns suck hard
I have to pan party up to play Mario kart with mates
Spotify,Pandora,and iheartradio. One of those would be nice.
The shortsightedness of some fanboys here is astounding. Adding capabilities does not work against the console in any way, only on your warped mind.
The Switch being what it is is perfect for apps like Netflix, Youtube, or anything on video, because you can have that in both portable and TV form. Even if the console itself is not your only device the ability to just stream any of those services with a quick HDMI cable is awesome.
No I don't agree the Switch needs all these apps but this comment section is infuriating to read. "I don't like or want these features so nobody should have or want them, it's a gaming console".
First of all the Switch already has a couple of these non gaming apps.
Secondly, all gaming consoles released in the past decade can do these things, including the Wii, 3DS and Wii U.
Thirdly, no, I'm not using these apps on my tiny phone screen and I do not own a tablet or other adequate TV capable device other than the Wii U which I do not want to be forced to keep using. Please stop assuming your needs are the same as everyone else's.
Couldn't agree more!
One of the joys of choosing apps is you can decide whether or not you want them. You either download them or you don't. You can keep your dedicated little gaming console or you can have a Hybrid in the 21rst century. It is up to you. Problem solved
Youtube and VRV for me rn now please. Can wait for the rest.
@8-Bit_Zorldo Because it's about seamlessly transitioning from one experience to the next, with whatever devices you're using at that moment.
Netflix and a web browser please. Everything else can wait.
A good budgeting app would be nice.
All stuff that will probably be very popular, and some of it I'd like to see too, but I was just reminded why I love something like the SNES Mini so much when I read this article: Everything modern is corrupted by "social" media rubbish like Facebook and its ilk--and a huge part of me totally and utterly despises that.
Not too fussed at all about apps on the Switch tbh. Already have a dozen devices in my house that can do streaming, music etc and always have my phone near me so wouldn't use them at all. Now I can understand why it's important to people especially the streaming and music apps but some of these suggestions are wild. Like above, a budgeting app, lol. How many people would actually use a budget app on their switch, think about it. Probably wouldn't make financial sense to develop and submit for approval.
@Flipbot When are you going to be out, using your Switch to run netflix? You need wifi.
What devices do you have hooked up to your t.v. that can't already run netflix?
The apps I really want are Netflix, Youtube and maybe a Browser. I mostly watch Netflix on my phone or Laptop, when I want to watch it on my TV I have to hook my laptop up to the TV which works fine, but its a bit of a hassle. Netflix on the Switch would make that a lot easier.
@kupocake the current browser is so minimalistic it can't download things or do other basic browser stuff like running code, that functionality is what's needed for hackers
I actually can use those app on my smartphone, tablet, tv, notebook and desktop pc so I absolutely fell no need of having them on the Switch.
I have a theory that Nintendo took some money and signed a timed exclusivity deal with Hulu. That would explain everything. And the web browser is probably not accessible due to hacking exploits.
Netflix, YouTube, and Twitch!
Only Netflix wanted. The others we don't need to be watched by Google or youtube adds... more commercials
@SLIGEACH_EIRE I often prefered starting my Wii U for a quick internet search or some Youtube streaming, over any other device. It was also very nice to have it when getting stuck in a game.
Netflix would be welcome too, but for now my Playstation serves well as a BD/Netflix player.
@LUIGITORNADO As I explained in my post, Netflix allows temporary downloads on a large selection of movies and shows. No need for wifi once they’re downloaded. I do it on my phone all the time. It would be nice to do on the switch 1) because I have alot more available storage
2) a much larger screen that I don’t have to dirty with fingerprints.
3) and if I want to save my phone battery, for you know being a phone, which I might need, then I can use up my Switch for all of my entertainment needs and reserve my phone for when I actually might need it.
I have a tablet, but often the Switch and my phone are the only devices I bring with me on trips.
I already have the Switch connected to my TV. The second hdmi cable trades off between my cable box, my ps3, my wiiu, and my snes classic. I know ps3 has netflix, but I almost never use it on that. I mostly use it on the wiiu, but I have to boot it up and it’s slow. It would be nice to access it on the newest console that I use the most, and be able to boot it up immediately without switching around second hdmi cable.
I asked and Funimation said they asked for a Switch dev kit from Nintendo...last year. And they still haven't gotten one, wtf? :/
Top priority sort out voice chat! If that means discord then let's launch the app!
Second choice Netflix.
Third choice YouTube.
More themes
All these apps would probably slow the switch cpu
I've owned Switch from Day One and have never once thought "I wish this had Netflix."
I realize others have different needs and opinions, but this is mine and adding Netflix is not what I want Nintendo devs wasting (imho) their time on.
The nintendo anime channel would be a start
maybe put a few other shows on like sonic, classic Mario, f zero and dk. A few movies would be good too
Discord I can see being very useful. Facebook good lord no thanks.
Youtube & Twitter would be cool as well. I can see Netflix appearing in 2018.
It would likely only slow down the cpu if you downloaded every app mentioned, which of course would be a personal choice that is entirely optional. I doubt that adding one or two streaming or voicechat apps would do much of anything.
And Nintendo don’t have to expend any time or energy whatsoever on a Netflix app. The just have to give Netflix the ok, like they did with hulu. It would be almost no effort on their part. And it would’t be any compromise for Switch owners who don’t want Netflix. It’s not like Nintendo is sitting there debating whether to develop their next AAA game or allow the creation of a Netflix app.
It's only a small thing, but do I really need icons of ALL my physical games all the time? Surely the cart that is in is fine?
WWE Network will do me just fine
i actually dont need any apps, what I care about are games
@SLIGEACH_EIRE but all those cool perks are gone without the WiU pad acting as a second screen
Watch out, Adam and Eve ate the forbidden app to open the way to a bad OS.
...
I'll take the activity log and show myself out.
More games for me, achievements would be great too
I can use the line I dont need apps like others have mentioned but that doesnt make excuses why they are not included for those that would use them, those apps like you said are on every other device you own so why wouldnt or shouldn't they be on the Switch?
@ValhallaOutcast Just a couple of advantages the Wii U has.
I already have these apps on literally dozens of other devices. I don’t really need/want them on my switch. I can watch Netflix for 10 hours on my iPad why would I want to kill the battery on my switch. More options are always good and if someone else would like this I am happy for them, but it is on the bottom of my personal list of switch hopes.
Crunchyroll, Netflix, Youtube & Net Browser would be my absolute most wanted
web browser 1st, then netflix.
Im thinking netflix, youtube, browser, and to differentiate the portability a kindle app and an audible
I’m different than some people. I actively hate when I need to use more than one device at once. For me, it’s a huge setback that the Switch doesn’t have any apps or a proper web browser. I have small hands. I will only be actively using one device at a time. Meaning while I play Switch there is basically nothing social at all. Or internet in the form of information. There is a function that shows how many online friends I have, but I can’t even communicate with them. The Switch is a very lonely device, it has that pre-historic feeling, from when internet wasn’t really a thing. Like the DS. I hope Nintendo realizes this soon. The people who doesn’t care won’t mind the web browser or the YouTube app. And the customizable backgrounds. Because it’s optional to use it if the Switch gets any of that in the first place. They can stay pre-historic if they like. I want apps, customization and communication. I’m probably not the only one.
@Phle I agree with you. Some people may want this. I don’t but I understand some folks do. The way the switch is set up and the hardware it is working with I doubt you will be multitasking apps though. So in order to be updated on your social media you would likely have to suspend your game and come back to it. I just throw my iPhone on the seat next to me or let my Apple Watch notify me of texts or social media which doesn’t require an extra hand.
Apps are what the Switch needs to become fully dominate. No one says you have to install them. I can't believe they didn't mention a general media player. I mean come on we can easily drop mp3/mp4 on the sdcard and then you can watch series or movies and instantly Switch formats. Some streaming apps are allowing timed DLs which would work the same. The idea is I am watching Dr Who at home, need to hit he road and boom off I go (making the wife drive) continuous viewing.
All I want is folders. I fully intend to buy every Neo Geo game released for the Switch, making it the ultimate Neo Geo machine, and I need a folder for all those Neo Geo games, so they're not mixed in with all the current games.
I already have to entire Neo Geo library on my Raspberry Pi 3 of course, but the Switch is the superior option for gameplay versatility and the portability factor just nails it.
Now give me folders!
Other than youtube and some streaming apps, the activity log and an easy way to retrieve your screenshots (maybe an email option), none of this is really needed. Social media apps are especially useless if typing is problematic, and who doesn't own a phone or other device for this stuff? I'm sure I haven't seen any of this on my PS4. I like that Nintendo keep the Switch simple. It's for games and occasionally watching stuff. That's it!
PS: Obviously voice chat is required. A Nintendo proprietary one would be enough.
Web browser!!
i think Vudu and Amazon Video need to be added to the list of apps.
The apps I want on Switch are called WarioWare D.I.Y. + Showcase, KORG Gadget, SmileBasic, RPG Maker, and a new Google Earth/"Wii Street U" world map kind of thing.
Not interested in any of them really. My tv has most of the streaming services built in, I have a laptop, and as far as achievements/trophies are concerned I don't need a virtual pat on the back for progressing through a game. Getting through a game is reward enough without that nonsense.
only things that i care are: The Web Browser, Netflix, Crunchyroll, Discord and MAYBE twitch/youtube.
not interested in facebook or twitter.
I don't care about any of these besides an activity log.
I have a PC.
I wonder as they have been pushing the mobile apps to work with the switch if they would be able to make it a chromcast style device and be able to fling media to the switch.
I have little interest in apps but would like an activity log very much.
As long as they don’t force to download all the apps, sure. I like the Switch as it is, since for everything else I have my iPad. I wouldn’t like the OS to grow bloated and slow from a bunch of apps I’ll never use so make it optional.
No, just no! Youtube okay and anime and netflix also . But no social media apps. Buy a Tablet or a phone for that, the means of the Switch should 'escapisme' and that would be contradicted by having to much social media.
@Phle I agree, at the very least i would like a way to text my nintendo friends, if not go verbal
Talk talk TV store please. My entire digital movie library is on that and only way to watch is some Samsung smart TV’s or Xbox One
My top 3:
1. Web browser
2. Youtube
3. Activity Log
I have to admit, that i don't really need any of the apps on my switch.
But maybe that's just me.
I can see how netflix or something could be useful to those who don’t have any other devices next to their tv. But why would we need facebook apps or any Sofian media to the switch when almost everyone has a smartphone or a tablet. The battery like when used as a handheld is not that great, it would just drain the playtime if one would check facebook from the switch. A browser could be useful if one was stuck in a game and could not progress. But in that case it would also just be easier to get the iphone from the pocket.
I wish Nintendo would keep the switch as a gaming console only. Do just one thing and do it right, not a milloin things that are ”just ok”. If social media is a must, just add a feature to share clips and screenshots to a linked facebook accounts wall and that’s it.
But what the switch needs is an improved eshop, virtual console, folders in the main screen of the OS. And some sort of trophies. They just make it more appealing to replay and find everything from a game.
These apps compete directly with games thenselves, wouldnt be wise to release them on switch. I also suspect that the lack of distractions is one of the factors that small games sell so well on this platform! People want to use their new toy! If they can what youtube they will play less games.
A browser could be useful at times, but most of the time, I have another device in reach, that I can pick up to lock for whatever information I'm searching. A proper way to track activities on the system would be equally nice to have, though none of this is really essential.
Frankly, I don't really need any of those apps. I mean, if anything I'd be playing the Switch WHILE watching Netflix on some other device - not the other way round. Same goes for stuff really. Still, that is just me and my personal habits, I still think the Switch should support basic apps like Netflix, for sake of users who feel like a dedicated gaming device is just not enough in this day and age.
Having said all that, I do want to have proper voice chat solution on the Switch that allows for mixing game and voice chat without having to involve another piece of hardware (not to mention cables, and adapter and yet more software).
That solution is inacceptable to me for once in this day and age. We are ways and ways beyond that, have been for more than a generation to be quite honest. Luckily, I've been busy with singleplayer content sofar, so it hasn't impacted me yet, but that is not going to stay that forever (presumeably).
Proper Activity Log.
MiiVerse (or something similar).
Folders.
An easy way to move games or apps from the internal memory to the SD card and vice versa. (Maybe I didn't see this one.)
All those other things are done well enough on the plethora of other devices that exist and most homes have at least one other option for Netflix, Internet, Facebook, Twitter, and the like.
I don't know why people want a web browser considering how that creates hacking/malware issues.
@ThatNyteDaez I don't know why some people feel a need to have social media integrated into absolutely every single thing they use. I mean it's bad enough how it has taken over every communication device, do we really need it taking over every game console as well? It gets annoying, some people are just way too addicted to it and need to learn how to enjoy things without it.
Just games. I have five devices or more with apps. meh
Ohhhhhhhh you meant apps literally...okay...was wondering why there were no games on the list.
Switch doesen't need apps thats already on 1000's of superior hardware boxes.
Switch doesen't have SIM slot either, and relies on phone hotspot to use 4G etc.
I think video streaming apps would be a nice addition, Facebook and Twitter should stay away from the switch though!
@Luigi_Skywalker I have an Apple watch, but I get so many notifications constantly, because I’m in a Pokémon Go chat / raid group and they send Messages all day. I dissbled the notifications for like two weeks, but now, I have them back on... The notifications are killing me, I want to just see the time and the weather (yes, I check my wrist for the weather all the time, it’s weird), but I always use Apple Music on my iPhone and now my watch always show what song I’m currently playing. Argh. Time and weather Apple! The rest should be very optional.
@Phle this is a little off topic but this will fix your Apple Watch issue: Open the Watch app on your iPhone and tap on My Watch at the bottom left.
Tap on General > Wake Screen.
Turn Off the Auto Launch Audio Apps.
Exit out of the Settings.
Just give us a Nintendo Direct channel, aren't you then getting straight to your target audience. Also Miiverse was awesome, why take a backwards step with Switch?
@Abes3 Maybe you meant the other way around.
@SIMOMEGA afraid not. I have my XB1 and PS4 for the hardcore games and I've always had a Nintendo console (because they make awesome games). Since the switch, I haven't used my 3DS. I haven't needed to use it. I can choose between awesome games on the go OR n64 graphics on a smaller, less vibrant clamshell screen. I've been a fan of DS family (6 and counting) but it's time to let her rest. Nintendo innovated the 3DS redundant with the switch
@Luigi_Skywalker Thanks
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