YouTube and Video Apps Face Launch Hurdles on Nintendo Switch 2: Availability and Updates

Nintendo Switch 2: YouTube and Other Video Apps Currently Unavailable, Updates Ongoing The eagerly anticipated launch of the Nintendo Switch 2 has generated significant excitement among gaming enthusiasts and industry professionals alike.

While the next-generation console continues Nintendo's tradition of innovation and broad game libraries, early adopters have encountered a notable absence: several popular video streaming applications, including YouTube, are currently not operational on the new hardware. Background: Nintendo Switch 2’s App Compatibility Since its debut, the Nintendo Switch platform has supported a variety of video streaming services such as YouTube, Niconico, Hulu, and Crunchyroll, available via the Nintendo eShop on original Switch hardware.

YouTube, in particular, first appeared as a free app on the Nintendo Switch eShop in 2018 and was also previously available on the Wii U, Nintendo 3DS, and Wii, cementing its long-standing relationship with Nintendo’s ecosystem. However, users attempting to access YouTube on the newly released Nintendo Switch 2 have reported a system notification stating that the software is unable to start.

This has raised questions about app compatibility and the broader suite of streaming services on the updated platform.

According to Nintendo, this issue has been identified in backward compatibility tests and is under active review. Official Statements: Nintendo and YouTube Respond In response to user inquiries and widespread discussion among the gaming community, both Nintendo and YouTube have issued official updates.

Nintendo has acknowledged the compatibility issues in its backward compatibility assessments, confirming that the YouTube app for Switch 2 is “being investigated.” Meanwhile, YouTube addressed user concerns directly via its social media channels, stating, "We’re working with Nintendo to make YouTube available on the Switch 2 soon." The company encouraged Switch 2 owners to "stay tuned" for further updates and directed users to its platform availability page for current information. Other Video Apps Currently Unavailable YouTube is not the only streaming service affected.

As documented in recent update notes, additional video applications—including Niconico, ABEMA, Hulu, Crunchyroll, and InkyPen—are likewise experiencing compatibility issues on the Nintendo Switch 2.

The companies involved have assured users that they are working closely with Nintendo to restore support for these apps. Impact and Looking Ahead The absence of key video streaming services on a newly launched console is notable given the modern gaming landscape’s emphasis on multi-purpose entertainment devices.

Nintendo’s commitment to resolving these compatibility hurdles, together with the active collaboration of service providers like YouTube, suggests that a resolution is a priority. As updates and patches are developed, Switch 2 users are encouraged to follow official channels and the Nintendo eShop for the latest information on app compatibility and availability.

The ongoing cooperation between Nintendo and leading streaming companies aims to ensure that video content remains an integral part of the Nintendo Switch ecosystem in the near future.

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