Unable to Access Game-Specific Services in the Nintendo Switch App
Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch Lite, Nintendo Switch - OLED Model
The information in this article can help you when you are unable to access game-specific services, such as ZELDA NOTES, SplatNet 3, or NookLink, in the Nintendo Switch App.
Note: For information on what is required to use the Nintendo Switch App, please see our overview and FAQ.
What to do
- Ensure your smart device has the latest OS update version.
- Check the Network Maintenance Information/Operational Status page for any posted service outages.
- Ensure your Nintendo Switch App is updated to the latest version.
- Update the default web browser on your smart device to the latest version.
- For Android devices, ensure Android System WebView is updated to the latest version.
- Ensure you are signing into the app using the correct Nintendo Account.
- Your Nintendo Account must also have existing save data for the game in order to access game-specific features in the Nintendo Switch App.
- If the date of birth set for the Nintendo Account is under the age of 13, voice chat will be restricted. This does not affect other game-specific features.
- If you have set up parental controls, confirm that they are not set to restrict "Communicating with Others" on your Nintendo Switch 2 or Nintendo Switch console.
- Sign out of your Nintendo Account from the Nintendo Switch App, and then sign in again.
- If you are having trouble accessing the following services, confirm that the account you signed in with has an active Nintendo Switch Online membership:
- SplatNet 3 (for Splatoon 3)
- NookLink (for Animal Crossing: New Horizons)
- Smash World (for Super Smash Bros. Ultimate)
- If you are having trouble accessing ZELDA NOTES, confirm that you have access to either The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition or The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition. You must be connected online while playing either game to use most ZELDA NOTES features.
- If you already have the original Nintendo Switch game—as either a physical or digital version—you can upgrade to the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition by purchasing the game's upgrade pack from Nintendo eShop, Nintendo Store, or retailers to enjoy the upgraded features, including ZELDA NOTES.
- If you own a physical Nintendo Switch 2 Edition copy of either game, the upgrade pack is included on the cartridge.
- Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack members get access to both upgrade packs at no additional cost.
- Delete the Nintendo Switch App from your smart device, then install it again.
Situation not resolved
If the issue persists, please contact us for further assistance.
