The Nintendo Switch is not going to feature multimedia apps such as Hulu or Netflix upon launch although these could be added to the device later on. It is now confirmed that the Switch will also lack an Internet browser, at least during launch.
"In terms of the Internet browser, since all of our efforts have gone toward making Switch an amazing dedicated video game platform," Nintendo President Tatsumi Kimishima told TIME. "It will not support it, at least at launch."
The lack of a browser also means consumers will only be able to utilize certain apps such as Facebook and Twitter when they are officially supported on the Switch. Gamers will not be able to fire up a browser and log into their social media accounts the old fashioned way.
While the lack of a browser may not affect many, given how the eShop and Virtual Console are expected to be fully functional on launch, it may become a burden for some gamers with unique Wi-Fi systems at home. Certain Wi-Fi routers require users to login via a browser.
Not many consumers use the browser on their consoles, based on a poll from Kotaku. As of the time of writing, over 15,000 voters stated they do not rely on the browsers on their consoles. 2,300 voters stated they do use their browser on the PS4. Both the 3DS and Vita received less than 700 votes.
A vast majority of gamers utilize the browsers on their smartphones, laptops or desktop computers. Browsers on consoles and portable gaming devices often do not get updated as frequently as they do for a desktop and are considered to be of sub-standard quality.
Kimishima's statement does indicate a browser may be included in the future. This will be similar to how the 3DS gained new apps like YouTube over the course of its shelf life.
The Nintendo Switch releases on March 3. The official presentation can be viewed below: