The Nintendo Switch has recently received its very first streaming service since it’s launch in March. The console was released without apps like Hulu or Netflix, but Nintendo stated that these developments would come along in time. However, instead of these companies making their mark first on the console, Japan’s own Niconico was the first video app to debut on the Switch.
This streaming service has been compared to YouTube in the past due to its similarity to their live feature, and is known for its streams which allow users to add comments that show up on videos for all viewers to see. Users can also upload their own videos, which allow features like polls and quizzes along with pop-up comments.
Niconico was also the first video app available on the PS Vita. A few Japanese video game companies also use this service to make announcements, so it isn’t exactly a big surprise that Niconico is the console’s first video streaming service. The Japanese eShop is the exclusive home for the Niconico app due to the service’s broad popularity in Japan, however Switch owners can create a Japanese account and then download the app through it to use.
The addition of Niconico also demonstrated that companies are able to add apps to the console’s eShop without the need of system updates which may mean other video streaming services can be added just as easily. Although this does show promise there is no known information about the addition of other streaming services on the console such as YouTube, Hulu, or Netflix