Nintendo to Discontinue Google and Apple Sign-Ins for Switch Accounts

Nintendo has announced that it will be discontinuing the option to sign in with a Google or Apple account for its Switch accounts. According to a notice posted on the company's support site, this change will take effect on January 26, 2027, although the exact cut-off date may be subject to change depending on the progress of its system changes. This change applies to all Nintendo Switch models, including the original Switch, Switch Lite, OLED model, and the upcoming Switch 2.

The discontinuation of Google and Apple sign-ins will not only affect existing users but also new users, as it will no longer be possible to create a new Nintendo Account using a Google or Apple login. Additionally, a My Nintendo Platinum Points mission that rewarded players for linking their Google account will be discontinued. Users who have relied on these shortcuts will need to use an alternative method to access their account, which requires either the email address or Sign-In ID associated with their Nintendo Account, along with its password, or a Passkey.

A Passkey is a new login method that allows players to unlock their account using the fingerprint or face recognition built into their phone or other smart device, replacing the password altogether. Nintendo pitches it as both easier and more secure and has published a guide to registering one. For users who signed up through Google or Apple and may have never set a password, the “Forgot your password?” option on the Nintendo Account login page will send a reset email.

However, if the reset email fails to arrive, Nintendo suggests adding [email protected] to the email safe-sender list. Players who no longer have access to the email address on the account will have to contact Nintendo support to get it updated, a step best taken well before the switch-off. This change affects users in the Americas, and gamers in other regions should check their local Nintendo support page for the exact terms that apply to them.

The notice posted on Nintendo's support site advises users to sort out their credentials before the change takes effect. Players logged in on a console or device may not need to sign in again, but the login page could appear at any time. Nintendo is encouraging users to use a Passkey or update their login credentials to ensure uninterrupted access to their accounts.

The change is part of Nintendo's efforts to enhance the security and management of its accounts. By discontinuing Google and Apple sign-ins, Nintendo is pushing users to use its own authentication methods, which it believes are more secure and easier to use. The company has published guides and resources to help users through the transition.

Overall, the discontinuation of Google and Apple sign-ins for Switch accounts marks a significant change for Nintendo users. While it may require some users to update their login credentials, Nintendo believes that the change will ultimately enhance the security and user experience of its accounts. Users are advised to take steps to update their accounts and ensure uninterrupted access to their Nintendo Switch accounts.

Key points

• Nintendo will discontinue Google and Apple sign-ins for Switch accounts by January 26, 2027.