Hey, congrats on getting a Nintendo Switch[1]! It’s fun to see Nintendo back on its game. Hopefully, you’re already playing The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, but if not (or maybe if you need a break), try exploring some of the quirky features of your crazy new hybrid handheld console. Nintendo’s system has quite a few Easter eggs and hidden features you may not know about.
1. Turn on Your TV
True to its name, the Switch will turn on your TV for you, or switch its input when you boot it up. Booting it up is also wireless. Just press the Home button on your Joy-Con or Pro controller. If you don’t like the feature (not all TV’s are capable), turn it off in Settings > TV Settings > Match TV Power State.
2. Pair Joy-Cons with an Android Phone, Mac, or PC
Joy-Cons are living up to their name. I couldn’t help but smile when I discovered I could pair my Joy-Con or Pro Controller with an Android phone. Better yet, it works with Mac and PCs, too (though you’ll need an app like JoyToKey[2] to map the buttons correctly on Windows). They work because Nintendo uses Bluetooth to connect them. Just hold down the small sync button on the top of the controllers for a few seconds and the lights on them will flash, letting you know they’re in pairing mode. Find them in the Bluetooth menu of your phone or computer and you’re good to go.
3. Check Your Battery Life Anytime
The Switch gets 3-6 hours of battery life, which is just low enough that it’s gonna stress you out sometimes. To see the...