Nintendo Privacy Policy Update Says Switch 2 'May' Monitor and Record Audio and Video Chat Sessions — With Your Consent

With the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2 just under a month away, it's crucial to be aware of its new features, including its ability to record audio and video chat sessions. Nintendo has clarified its intentions in the privacy policy section of its website, a change that was first noted by NintendoSoup. This update might influence how players use the Switch 2 both at home and on the go, as Nintendo states it "may" use your information to "provide a safe and secure environment for certain of our services."

According to the "Your Content" section of Nintendo's privacy policy, "Our services may allow you to create, upload or share content such as text, images, audio, video, your nickname and user icon, or other content that you create or is licensed to you." Additionally, with your consent and to enforce their terms, Nintendo may monitor and record your video and audio interactions with other users. This monitoring will be conducted in line with their terms of use and privacy policy.

It's important to highlight Nintendo's requirement for user consent to monitor and record video and audio, indicating that there will likely be an opt-in feature when setting up the Switch 2. As the launch date of June 5 approaches, understanding these changes is essential for fans.

The Switch 2 introduces new features aimed at enhancing multiplayer communication, spearheaded by a new C button that enables instant chatting with friends across Nintendo's online network. By pressing this button, players can use the built-in microphone of the Switch 2 to communicate. The console also supports screen sharing, allowing players to experience couch co-op remotely, and video streaming for those who opt for the new camera accessory. While the video quality may be modest, it serves the purpose of connecting players visually.

Beyond enhanced graphics and more precise control options, the voice and video chat capabilities could be a defining feature of the Switch 2. It's vital to consider Nintendo's updated privacy policy in light of these features. For further details on the upcoming launch, you can explore why a popular Piranha Plant accessory is slightly cheaper than the standard camera, how the system's pre-order launch was handled, and our interview with Nintendo's Bill Trinen.