Updated on January 14: The original version of this article linked to a different Discord server, also called "Nintendo Switch 2." The link has been changed to reflect the real source of the datamining effort. The original story is as follows.
Summary
- The Nintendo Switch 2's rumored C button may be used for chat functionality.
- Recent datamining efforts suggest the Switch 2 will support a group and voice chat feature code-named Campus.
- The next Nintendo console will reportedly be officially revealed on January 16.
The C button rumored to be a feature of the Nintendo Switch 2 could be dedicated to chat-related functions, according to a newly surfaced report. If true, this could provide clarity on one of the most enigmatic aspects of the hardware for Nintendo's upcoming console.
Leaks about the Nintendo Switch 2 have been frequent since late 2024, likely due to the console entering mass production around that time. These leaks have consistently shown that the new console features an additional button compared to its predecessor. Labeled with a dark gray "C," this button is typically shown on the right Joy-Con, just below the home button. Despite these frequent leaks, the purpose of the C button remained a mystery until now.
Thanks to recent datamining efforts on the latest version of the Switch OS, a theory about the C button has emerged. Reports from a fast-growing Discord server focused on the Switch 2 indicate that Nintendo's newest firmware includes references to a feature code-named "Campus." This feature is believed to be related to group and voice chat support for Nintendo Switch Online (NSO) subscribers.
Nintendo Switch 2 Will Reportedly Support Screen Sharing
The same source suggests that Campus will enable screen sharing and allow chat groups to include up to 12 users. Given that the feature's codename starts with a "C," it's plausible that the new button on the Nintendo Switch 2 could be related to "chat" rather than "Campus." This challenges the popular fan theory that the C button might be used for casting the console's screen to other devices.
Chat Support Isn't Exactly in Line With the Switch's Kid-Friendly Design
Since group and voice chats require internet connectivity, it's likely that the Switch 2 would offer these features only to NSO subscribers. However, this remains uncertain, especially considering the original Switch's design, which deliberately avoided such functionalities to maintain a kid-friendly environment. Reintroducing features like Miiverse text chat could present challenges that Nintendo might prefer to avoid.
The true purpose and existence of the C button on the much-anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 may be revealed soon. According to multiple sources, the console is set to be officially announced on January 16.
