Does the Nintendo Switch OLED have Bluetooth?

Nintendo Switch Oled Model In Dock Light On
Nintendo Switch Oled Model In Dock Light On (Image credit: Rebecca Spear / iMore)

Does the Nintendo Switch OLED have Bluetooth?

Best answer: Yes! Nintendo added Bluetooth connectivity to the Switch just before the OLED's launch. So, thankfully, the Nintendo Switch OLED will come with Bluetooth capabilities right out of the box.

Switching on the Bluetooth

Bluetooth connectivity wasn't always a luxury given to Switch fans. The console finally caught up in September 2021, when Bluetooth was finally added to the console as part of the 13.0.0 patch. The Switch OLED launched nearly a month later on Oct. 8 and shipped with the 13.0.0 patch already pre-installed, so new adopters don't have to worry about any updates to enjoy Bluetooth.

The Switch OLED is compatible with most Bluetooth headsets and controllers, but there are some limitations to consider before syncing your favorite accessories to the console.

A limited offering

Nintendo Switch Oled Model

Nintendo Switch Oled Model (Image credit: Nintendo)

The main drawback to the Switch OLED's Bluetooth offering is the lack of support for Bluetooth microphones. You will only be able to use a Bluetooth headset to listen to in-game audio, not for chatting with friends while playing.

Local wireless communication also deactivates the Switch OLED's Bluetooth features, though if you're playing with a friend in the same room, you likely won't be using a headset. Similarly, only two wireless controllers can be used with a Switch OLED using Bluetooth audio. However, having two local players usually means they're playing next to each other, so a headset will likely not be in use.

How do you use Bluetooth on the Switch OLED?

To use the Nintendo Switch OLED's Bluetooth capabilities, follow these simple steps:

  1. Access the settings on the Nintendo Switch OLED's main menu.
  2. Scroll down to Bluetooth Audio, which has its own section in the menu.

Nintendo Switch Oled Bluetooth (Image credit: iMore)
  1. Make sure your device is ready to pair, and select Pair Device.Source: iMore

Nintendo Switch Oled Bluetooth (Image credit: iMore)

Nintendo Switch Oled Bluetooth (Image credit: iMore)
  1. When the device appears, select it and the Switch OLED will connect to it.

That's it! Now you can listen to the sounds of your favorite Nintendo Switch OLED games on a wireless Bluetooth headset or speaker.

Jason Fanelli