Nintendo Switch Friend List Update: Now Shows Which Console Your Friends Are Using
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Published on: May 01, 2025
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Nintendo Switch Friend List Update: Now Shows Which Console Your Friends Are Using
Nintendo has introduced a significant update to the Nintendo Switch, enhancing the social connectivity features of its best-selling hybrid console.
With this new friend list enhancement, users can now see exactly which Nintendo system—either the current Nintendo Switch or the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2—their friends are playing on when they’re online.
This update signals Nintendo’s continued commitment to improving the Nintendo Switch user experience, especially as the gaming community anticipates the next generation of Nintendo hardware.
Since its initial launch in March 2017, the Nintendo Switch has become one of the most popular gaming platforms worldwide, with a library of critically acclaimed titles and consistent updates improving its software ecosystem.
The friend list has always been a central part of the Nintendo Switch’s online experience, allowing users to see when their friends are online and what games they are playing.
The latest update brings an extra layer of transparency and utility, letting players instantly know whether their friends are on a standard Nintendo Switch or have moved on to the Nintendo Switch 2.
According to an official statement from Nintendo, this feature is designed to make it easier for users to organize multiplayer sessions, especially as the player base transitions between two generations of hardware.
"The latest Nintendo Switch system update ensures that everyone can see which console their friends are currently using, making it easier to connect and play together," a Nintendo spokesperson remarked.
This update is expected to be especially valuable as long-running multiplayer hits like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Splatoon 3, and Super Smash Bros.
Ultimate remain active across both hardware generations.
The clarity provided by this update will help users better coordinate online play and ensure compatibility when setting up matches or sharing game invites.
The Nintendo Switch family—including the original model, Nintendo Switch Lite, and Nintendo Switch OLED—has collectively surpassed 125 million units sold as of the end of 2023, underscoring the importance of social features and seamless cross-generation support as Nintendo prepares to welcome the next generation.
Ongoing improvements like this friend list update reflect Nintendo’s dedication to the evolving needs of its substantial global user base.
This new friend list feature is available now via the latest Nintendo Switch system update, which can be downloaded automatically or manually through the system settings menu.
For the latest news and continued updates on the Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, and all Nintendo eShop developments, keep an eye on official channels and future Nintendo Direct streams.
