Nintendo finally announced that its hybrid console is now compatible with Bluetooth audio devices. This feature has been one of the most demanded by Nintendo Switch users since its launch in 2017, due to the fact that this type of device is already in daily use for most gamers.
The gaming giant made the announcement quietly through its official Twitter account. In this post, Nintendo pointed out that the inclusion of this functionality was due to a software update, which allows the Switch the ability to pair with Bluetooth devices for audio output.
That said, now in the console configuration, “gamers” can find the “Bluetooth Audio” section in which it is possible to synchronize a pair of headphones or some other audio device with this type of connectivity.
However, it is important to say that the new function is only compatible with devices for audio output and not for input devices via Bluetooth such as microphones.
Similarly, it is only possible to pair the Nintendo Switch with two controllers at the same time while using Bluetooth audio, so it will be necessary to disconnect your headphones if you want to participate in eight-player games.
While it is possible to store up to 10 Bluetooth devices on the console system, the new functionality has some limitations, as you will only be able to use a maximum of two wireless controls when connecting a Bluetooth audio device.
Also, this functionality will be disabled automatically during local communication and there will be no support for Bluetooth microphones.
How do I link my headphones to my Nintendo Switch?
The process to pair a pair of headphones or a speaker to the Switch is very easy, you just have to put your console in pairing mode and look for the devices in the list of available devices.
The problem of Bluetooth on consoles
An important point to mention is that this functionality came after four years of the Nintendo Switch being on sale, however, it is not the only case within the industry.
In fact, PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X | S currently do not have support for these types of devices natively. This is because wireless controllers work with Bluetooth and adding more devices to the network could cause interference and excessive latency.
Wireless audio has been conspicuously absent from the Switch since it was first released. Over the years, various third-party manufacturers released accessories that added support for wireless audio devices, while a previous update also added support for USB headphones.
However, this update will ultimately make it much easier to use wireless technology, considering that it will allow you to connect the Bluetooth headset you use with all your other devices.