The Nintendo Switch Online App hasn’t even been out for long and it’s already got plenty of users a bit miffed, but that’s the nice way of putting it. Taking to Reddit, plenty of gamers have offered Nintendo some thoughtful criticism and feedback, but the lack of multitasking functionality is a bit of a head scratcher. Instead of being able to minimize the Switch mobile app, which was released in anticipation of Splatoon 2‘s launch this weekend, it completely shuts off. So, this means if your phone decides to sleep, lock, or you decide to look something up – there won’t be any luck in keeping the continuity of conversation with your buddies.

Unlike other Nintendo mobile apps, which are games, this serves a function. For example, chat and texting apps will continue to work even when minimized and it is the expectation that something like this would behave the same way. Keep in mind that this is the only option for Nintendo Switch players to communicate. Currently, there is no method available that allows players to simply plug in a mic and headphones – an option available for console users on the Xbox One and PlayStation 4. In an effort to provide a solution, Redditors like kadupse and SlyCurado mention the use of CallKit or VOIP APIs so the app can run in the background. To get an idea as to how passionate others are already getting about the lack of practicality, here are a few of the comments:

Granted, the Nintendo Switch Online App FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) does say that the app will disconnect if there are attempts to use other smart device features (i.e. texting, social media, google, etc.). However, the “voice chat will restart in the same room once you open” the application again, just as long as the “game session is still ongoing”. Even so, with the availability of current technology, it would seem like a logical step to make it a more functional part of gaming on the Switch console.

There are others quick to defend Nintendo’s attempt to evolve with the growing online gaming community since their focus has been so narrowly on hardware and content. Regardless, there is no doubting the public backlash the company will face even though a lot of it is on Reddit at this time. What do you think about the Nintendo Switch Online App as it is? Do you agree with some of the commentary? Feel free to let us know in the comments section below or start your own conversation on Don’t Feed the Gamers official Facebook page. To stay up to date on gaming news as they happen, follow us on Twitter! Here are some of our latest:

• John Romero Reveals the True Identity of Doomguy – “At Least on the Cover”
• PS4’s Superhot Has an Official Release Date – Get Ready for the Heat (VIDEO)
• Marvel Wants Director Jon Watts Back for Spider-Man: Homecoming 2