Netflix ‘exploring’ a Nintendo Switch app, but expert warns over possible delays
NETFLIX is “still exploring” the possibility of getting an app onto the Nintendo Switch.
The streaming giant has revealed that it eventually hopes to launch Netflix on Nintendo’s new console – but it’s not guaranteed.
This week, a Nintendo fan asked Netflix’s Twitter support account about the possibility of an app.
Netflix originally replied with the following message: “Hey there! There are currently no plans for Netflix on Nintendo Switch. We appreciate your feedback on it!”
However, Netflix quickly backtracked, deleting the tweet and replacing it with a more positive response.
“Correction: We are still exploring the opportunity with Nintendo, but don’t have definitive plans to share at this time. The incorrect original tweet has been removed.”
The bad news is that although Netflix looks keen to push its service onto Switch owners, Nintendo is being less transparent.
When asked for comment, a Nintendo spokesperson told The Sun that there were no updates to share right now.
We spoke to GfK analyst Imran Choudhary, who said that getting Netflix onto a new platform like the Switch won’t be easy.
“There’s a lot of things to sort out to make sure the experience for the consumer is as it should be.”
He also told The Sun that adding Netflix to Nintendo’s console would be a “win win” for both companies.
“This would really help drive the idea of the Switch being a portable device beyond gaming.”
“If it’s to continue its growth, it will need to consider doing what it can to become more appealing to those who don’t have one.”
“It could also be a way to introduce streaming services to a younger audience for whom the Switch might be the first device of this kind.”
Another analyst told The Sun that adding Netflix could “backfire” on the Switch, because it risks turning the console into an entertainment device – rather than just a games console.
But GBH Insights’ Daniel Ives admitted it would give Nintendo a “major opportunity” to make more money from the Switch.
The Nintendo Switch launched in March last year, and has proved really popular with gamers.
The console shipped over 2.74 million units in its first month on sale, beating Nintendo’s own internal goals. Since then, Nintendo has managed to flog over 10 million Nintendo Switch consoles.
The portable console works as a handheld device, but can also be plugged into your TV for living room gaming.
The addition of Netflix is an obvious next step, given how the Switch is designed for both at-home and on-the-go gaming.
Sadly, Switch owners might have to wait a while.