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

With the Nintendo Switch 2 set to launch in less than a month, it's crucial for fans to be aware of some new features that might impact their privacy. The company has updated its privacy policy, as reported by NintendoSoup, indicating that the Switch 2 may record your audio and video chat sessions. This change could affect how you use the console both at home and on the go, as Nintendo aims to "provide a safe and secure environment for certain of our services."

According to the "Your Content" section of the privacy policy, Nintendo states, "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, Nintendo notes, "With your consent, and to enforce our terms, we may also monitor and record your video and audio interactions with other users. When you use any of our services that include these or other similar capabilities, we may collect your content in accordance with our terms of use and this policy."

It's important to highlight that Nintendo requires user consent to monitor and record video and audio, suggesting that there will be an opt-in feature during the setup of the Switch 2. As the launch date of June 5 approaches, understanding these updates is essential for fans.

The Switch 2 introduces new features aimed at enhancing multiplayer communication. A key addition is the new C button, which instantly connects you with friends over Nintendo's online network. The console includes a built-in microphone, allowing for seamless voice chat. Additionally, screen sharing and video streaming capabilities are available, with the latter requiring the new camera accessory. While the video quality may be relatively low, it still facilitates broadcasting your face and potentially your surroundings to friends.

Beyond improved graphics and mouse-like control options, voice and video chat may become defining features of the Switch 2. Keeping Nintendo's recent privacy policy changes in mind will be important. For more details on the upcoming launch, you can explore why a popular Piranha Plant accessory is slightly cheaper than the standard camera, learn about how the system's pre-order launch was handled, and read our interview with Nintendo's Bill Trinen.