How to Use Apps on a Nintendo Switch

Authored by: Support.com Tech Pro Team

1. Introduction

Your console is not limited to just playing games. You can also install apps from the store. This guide aims to help you with basic apps usage.

2. Purchase and Download Game or App

  1. Open the Nintendo eShop.
Nintendo switch home menu with Nintendo E shop highlighted.
  1. Select the Account you want to use.
Nintendo Switch select a user account screen.
  1. Search for or navigate to the game or app you wish to purchase. If you have already purchased the game or app, you can simply redownload it again.
Nintendo Switch E shop start page.
  1. Select Proceed to Purchase.
Nintendo Switch E shop highlighting the proceed to purchase button.
  1. Select Confirm Purchase or Add Funds and Purchase.
Nintendo Switch E shop purchase screen with the add funds and purchase button highlighted.
  1. The game will download if you have enough funds.

3. Open Game or App

  1. Insert the game card if needed.
Inserting a game cart into a Nintendo Switch. Illustration.
  1. Tap on the game icon or select it.
Nintendo Switch home screen highlighted the inserted game.
  1. Press the A button to Start.

4. Remove Game or App

  1. Select System Settings.
Nintendo Switch home screen highlighting the system settings icon.
  1. Scroll down to Data Management.
  2. Select Manage Software.
Nintendo Switch system settings menu highlighting the data management and manage software options.

  1. Select the Game you want to delete or archive.
Nintendo Switch manage software menu displaying a list of currently installed games.
  1. Choose to delete or archive the game. Deleting removes all data including game saves. Archiving deletes the game but keeps the game saves in case you want to download the game again.
Nintendo Switch game data management screen highlighting available options.

5. Update Game or App

Your console needs to be connected to the internet.

  1. Select the Icon of the game or app you want to update.
  2. Press the + or - buttons.
Nintendo Switch home screen highlighting a currently installed game and the options button.
  1. Select Software Update.
  2. Select Via the Internet.
Nintendo Switch game options menu highlighting the software update button.