Why Nintendo Switch Doesn't Support Netflix...Yet

The Nintendo Switch launched without support for Netflix or any other video-streaming services. Now, Nintendo of America president Reggie Fils-Aime has confirmed that Nintendo is in discussions with Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon to bring their streaming services to Switch...eventually.

Fils-Aime told The Washington Post (via The Verge) that part of the reason why Nintendo did not push for Netflix or Hulu on Switch for launch was because he does not view those as things that would set the console apart.

"We built the Nintendo Switch to be a world-class gaming device, meaning we want you first and foremost to play games on the system and have an incredibly fun experience," he said. "We're talking to a range of companies about other services, companies like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon--things that will come in time. In our view, these are not differentiators."

He added: "What differentiates us is the way you play with the Nintendo Switch and what you can play. And that will continue to be our focus into the future as we continue driving this platform."

Nintendo confirmed before the Switch's launch that there would be no streaming services available out of the gate, but that they could come at a later date. Additionally, the Switch does not have a web browser, though, like the streaming apps, this feature might be added over time.

Also in the Post's interview, Fils-Aime responded to the criticism that the Switch's launch lineup was weak. As he's said before, the executive said launch is not the be all and end all.

"When you think about a new platform, what will define it as a long-term success are the ongoing range of games and experiences that come to the platform--not what's available on day one," he said. "For the Nintendo Switch, we were very deliberate in wanting to make sure, from a Nintendo publish[ing] standpoint, that we had a steady cadence of great games in addition to strong titles at launch.

One of the Switch's launch titles, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, received high praise from critics and sold well.

You can read the full Post interview here.

The Switch is Nintendo's fastest-selling console ever in the Americas and Europe, though Nintendo has yet to share any specific sales figures for it.