The Nintendo Switch Online app is designed to enhance the online gameplay experience on the Nintendo Switch system. By using this app, players can access game-specific services, view their online friends, and utilize voice chat during online play. These features aim to provide players with a more immersive and interactive online gaming experience.

The app offers game-specific services for various titles such as Splatoon 3, Animal Crossing: New Horizons, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, and Splatoon 2. For example, in Splatoon 3, players can check the online status of their friends, view detailed battle results, and check the upcoming stage schedule. In Animal Crossing: New Horizons, players can send custom designs from previous Animal Crossing titles and use their smartphones for in-game communication. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate allows players to view posted videos and images, queue up user-created stages, and receive notifications about upcoming events. Splatoon 2 offers features like viewing detailed battle results, checking rankings, and stage schedules.

The app also allows players to view their online friends and see which games they are currently playing. Additionally, players can send friend requests directly from the app. However, some friend features, such as adding friends, can only be accessed from the Nintendo Switch system itself.

Furthermore, the app enables voice chat during online play for supported software. Players can join voice chat sessions and communicate with other players in games that support team battles. The app automatically syncs the voice-chat status with the game status, ensuring a seamless experience.

It is important to note that certain online features, including voice chat and social-networking services, require a Nintendo Account age 13+ and a Nintendo Switch Online membership. Additionally, a compatible smartphone and a persistent internet connection are necessary to use the app. Data charges may apply, and the availability of Nintendo Switch Online may vary by country.