Nintendo’s new patent suggests that the Nintendo Switch 2 might have built-in voice chat, which could finally fix one of the biggest issues with the original console.
The patent, filed last month, describes a proximity chat system for games. This means players close to each other in-game could talk using headsets, like chatting with nearby racers right after hitting them with a blue shell in Mario Kart.
More importantly, the patent suggests that Nintendo might add full system-wide voice chat. If that happens, Switch 2 users could talk to friends no matter what game they’re playing, just like PlayStation and Xbox players can.
Current Chat Frustrations
Talking to friends on the original Switch is a hassle. I’ve had to use the Nintendo Switch Online app on my phone just to chat while gaming. Some games, like Fortnite, let you use a headset, but there’s no way to talk to someone playing a different game.
Just a heads-up, patents don’t always mean a feature will make it to the final product. Nintendo might just be testing ideas without a full commitment. But it does show they know this is something that needs improvement.
We’ll probably get more details during the Switch 2 Direct on April 2. The event should cover the release date, price, and maybe even explain the mysterious “C” button seen on the controller.
For Nintendo fans tired of the current chat issues, this patent gives hope that the Switch 2 could finally upgrade voice chat to match modern standards.
