Nintendo Switch 2 owners have been stuck without YouTube since the console launched last June, but that drought might be ending soon. According to a recent rumor from a YouTube Discord moderator, Google has been working on a dedicated YouTube app for the Switch 2, and it could drop this month.
The Missing App That Everyone’s Asking For
When the Switch 2 launched on June 5, 2025, it came with a glaring omission: no streaming apps. YouTube, which was available on the original Switch, simply didn’t work on the new hardware. Players who transferred the app from their old Switch were greeted with error messages saying the software couldn’t start.
Google acknowledged the issue back in June 2025, telling frustrated users on social media that they were working with Nintendo to make YouTube available soon. The official TeamYouTube account posted, “We’re working with Nintendo to make YouTube available on the Switch 2 soon,” but didn’t provide any timeline. That was eight months ago.
Discord Moderator Drops the Hint
The latest buzz comes from a YouTube Discord moderator who reportedly claimed that Google has been developing a Switch 2 version of the app and plans to launch it in February 2026. While this hasn’t been officially confirmed by YouTube or Nintendo, the timing would make sense given how long the app has been in development.
This rumor gained traction on Reddit’s Gaming Leaks and Rumours community, where users have been tracking every hint about the app’s arrival. The moderator allegedly has inside knowledge about YouTube’s release plans, though we should take any unofficial leak with a healthy dose of skepticism until Google makes an announcement.
Why Did It Take So Long?
The delay mirrors what happened with the original Switch. When that console launched in March 2017, YouTube didn’t arrive until November 2018, over a year and a half later. No official reason was given for either delay, though it likely involves technical optimization and compatibility testing for Nintendo’s unique hardware.
The Switch 2 supports backward compatibility with most original Switch games, but streaming apps apparently need specific updates to function on the new system. Other streaming services like Hulu, Crunchyroll, and region-specific platforms Niconico and Abema also don’t work on the Switch 2, and none have announced updates yet.
The Bigger Streaming Problem
YouTube isn’t the only streaming casualty. Hulu officially ended support for the original Switch on February 5, 2026, and never created a Switch 2 version. The platform is losing what few streaming options it had, making the YouTube situation even more critical for users who want their console to do more than just play games.
| Streaming App | Original Switch Status | Switch 2 Status |
|---|---|---|
| YouTube | Available | Coming Soon (Feb 2026?) |
| Hulu | Discontinued Feb 2026 | Not Available |
| Crunchyroll | Available | Not Available |
| Netflix | Not Available | Not Available |
What to Expect When It Arrives
Based on the Switch 2’s hardware capabilities, the YouTube app should support higher resolutions than its predecessor. The new console features a larger screen, more powerful custom Nvidia processor, and improved overall performance. Industry watchers expect docked mode to handle up to 4K60 playback, while handheld mode should top out at 1080p60.
The app will likely be available through the Nintendo eShop as a free download, just like it was on the original Switch. Whether Google creates a completely new app or updates the existing one for compatibility remains to be seen, but either way, Switch 2 owners will finally be able to watch their favorite content without switching devices.
Should You Get Excited?
While a Discord moderator leak isn’t the same as an official announcement, the timing feels right. Google has been promising the app for months, and February would mark eight months since the Switch 2 launched. That’s still faster than the original Switch’s 18-month wait.
With a rumored Nintendo Direct happening in early February 2026, possibly on February 5, there’s a chance Nintendo or Google could make an official announcement during or around that event. Until then, Switch 2 owners will have to keep using their phones, tablets, or other devices for YouTube.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will YouTube officially launch on Switch 2?
According to a Discord moderator leak, YouTube could launch on Switch 2 in February 2026. However, Google and Nintendo haven’t confirmed an exact release date yet. The official TeamYouTube account has only said the app is coming soon.
Why doesn’t the original Switch YouTube app work on Switch 2?
The original Switch’s YouTube app is not compatible with Switch 2’s hardware and software architecture. When users try to open the transferred app, they receive error messages. Streaming apps require specific updates to function properly on the new console.
Will YouTube on Switch 2 support 4K video?
Based on the Switch 2’s hardware capabilities, the YouTube app is expected to support up to 4K60 playback in docked mode. Handheld mode should handle 1080p60 resolution, which is a significant upgrade from the original Switch.
Are other streaming apps coming to Switch 2?
Currently, no other streaming services have announced plans for Switch 2 apps. Hulu ended support for even the original Switch on February 5, 2026, and services like Netflix, Crunchyroll, and regional platforms haven’t indicated they’re developing Switch 2 versions.
How long did YouTube take to arrive on the original Switch?
YouTube didn’t arrive on the original Nintendo Switch until November 2018, over 18 months after the console launched in March 2017. If the February 2026 rumor is true, Switch 2 users will have waited only eight months by comparison.
Where can I download YouTube when it launches on Switch 2?
When YouTube becomes available for Switch 2, it will be offered as a free download through the Nintendo eShop, the same distribution method used for the original Switch version. Users will be able to search for it in the eShop’s apps section.
Did Google explain why YouTube took so long to come to Switch 2?
Neither Google nor Nintendo has provided an official explanation for the delay. The holdup likely involves technical optimization, compatibility testing, and ensuring the app works properly with the Switch 2’s unique hardware features like the larger screen and improved processor.
Conclusion
The wait for YouTube on Switch 2 has tested the patience of Nintendo’s fanbase, but relief might finally be in sight. If the Discord moderator leak proves accurate, February 2026 could be the month when Switch 2 owners can finally watch their favorite videos without reaching for another device. While we’re still waiting on official confirmation from Google or Nintendo, the fact that development has been ongoing for eight months suggests the finish line is close. Keep your eyes on the Nintendo eShop this month, and maybe check back after that rumored February 5 Nintendo Direct for any official announcements.