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Image: Nintendo
The Nintendo Switch can finally connect to Bluetooth headphones. On Tuesday, Nintendo released a new update for the console that allows it to pair with Bluetooth audio devices, but even after the update, the system still won’t let you use a Bluetooth microphone.
According to Nintendo’s new post-update support page, there’s a new menu in the Switch’s System Settings called Bluetooth Audio where you can pair new devices with the system. The Switch can only be paired with one audio device at a time and it can only use Bluetooth when two or fewer wireless controllers are connected to the system — which means one pair of Joy-Cons only.
The latest #NintendoSwitch update is now available, including the ability to pair Bluetooth devices for audio output.
For more information, including restrictions on some features while using Bluetooth Audio, please visit the support page: https://t.co/vzAB6lZTDu pic.twitter.com/6J5xcDl5kU
— Nintendo of America (@NintendoAmerica) September 15, 2021
The Nintendo Switch has long supported wireless USB headphones, but this is the first time that Nintendo has allowed Bluetooth audio to connect — without the use of a third-party transmitter. However, this new update doesn’t simplify the Switch’s eternally complicated voice chat system as Bluetooth microphones will not work on the console. Instead, players still have to use a separate app, or Vivox in the games that support it.
