Nintendo Switch 2's C Button: A Strange Function Revealed

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 featured on the Nintendo Switch 2 may be dedicated to enhancing chat functionality, according to a new report. This revelation could provide crucial insights into one of the most intriguing aspects of Nintendo's upcoming console hardware.

Since late 2024, the Nintendo Switch 2 has been the subject of numerous leaks. Industry analysts believe these leaks stem from the console entering mass production around that time. These unofficial glimpses of the device consistently show an additional button labeled with a dark gray "C" on the right Joy-Con, just below the home button. However, until recently, the purpose of this mysterious button remained unknown.

Recent datamining efforts, highlighted by a dedicated Discord server focused on the Switch 2, have shed light on the C button's potential function. The latest version of the Switch OS reportedly contains references to a feature dubbed "Campus," which is believed to offer group and voice chat support for Nintendo Switch Online subscribers.

Nintendo Switch 2 Will Reportedly Support Screen Sharing

Further details from the same source indicate that Campus will enable screen sharing and allow chat groups to include up to 12 users. While the feature's codename starts with a "C," it's more plausible that the C button on the Switch 2 stands for "chat" rather than "Campus." This finding challenges the popular fan theory that the C button might be used for casting the console's screen to another device.

Chat Support Isn't Exactly in Line With the Switch's Kid-Friendly Design

Group and voice chat functionalities require internet connectivity, which might be exclusive to Nintendo Switch Online subscribers if implemented on the Switch 2. However, this feature could conflict with Nintendo's efforts to maintain a kid-friendly environment, as seen with the original Switch's lack of direct chat options. Reintroducing a feature similar to the Miiverse text chat could raise concerns about online safety that Nintendo might prefer to avoid.

The true purpose of the much-anticipated C button on the Nintendo Switch 2 may soon be revealed. According to multiple sources, the console will be officially announced this Thursday, January 16.