It's finally happening. The Nintendo Switch is now capable of connecting to wireless headphones when in docked mode.
Two days ago, Nintendo released a big update for the hybrid console. With the update, players are now able to capture videos in select games (The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, ARMS, and Splatoon 2) and transfer user and save data to another system. Turns out, Nintendo also stealthily added wireless headphones support in the update. Nintendo didn't mention anything about it in the patch notes.
Sounds too good to be true? Yes, actually. You see, the update only includes support for wireless headphones that come with USB dongles. As pointed out by Reddit users, the Switch still does not support a direct Bluetooth connection. And it appears not all USB wireless headphones can connect.
Nintendo is probably still testing the wireless headphones support, which is why they never made a big deal out of it by mentioning it in the recent update's patch notes. When they finally get it right, expect them to tell everyone about it.
Though functionality is still limited, the Switch's newfound ability to connect to USB wireless headphones is good news. This should temporarily calm down players who were outraged when the console launched in March with no wireless headphones support. At least we know Nintendo is actually listening to feedback regarding the issue.
Nintendo's decision to ignore wireless headphones is a baffling one, especially considering the Joy-Cons already use Bluetooth technology. Using wired headphones when the console is in docked mode isn't exactly the most comfortable scenario. Unlike PC gamers, console gamers typically play several feet away from the TV and console. Not all headphones come with generously long cables.
Hopefully, Nintendo adds full support for Bluetooth wireless headphones soon. Because it will also make playing in mobile mode more comfortable. For full details of the Switch's Update 4.0, check out Nintendo's patch notes.