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The 10,000-player Nintendo Switch test was the Nintendo Switch Online: Playtest Program, a test of a service feature that Nintendo did not identify publicly. Its 2024 application window closed, and the later 2025 repeat test is closed as well, so there is no application to submit for either run.
What the 10,000-player headline referred to
Nintendo announced the Nintendo Switch Online: Playtest Program on October 10, 2024. The company said it would test something related to a Nintendo Switch Online service and expected to accept as many as 10,000 participants. Nintendo did not name the feature in its announcement; descriptions of what it might have been should be treated as speculation, not a confirmed reveal.
Nintendo’s announcement described it as a test “related to a service for Nintendo Switch Online.” Nintendo’s announcement and its support guidance for participants provide the official context.
Can you still apply?
No. Recruitment for the 2024 program ran from October 10 through October 15, 2024, and the test itself was scheduled for October 23 through November 5, 2024. Reports said the 10,000 places filled within minutes. The application period has ended.
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- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
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Nintendo held a second version in 2025, but that application period has ended too. As of the latest confirmed run described here, neither program is open for applications. A future test would require a new notice from Nintendo; the past eligibility rules do not establish what a later program would require.
Who was eligible for the 2024 test?
For the 2024 run, applicants had to meet all of these conditions:
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Have an active Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership.
- Use a Nintendo Account registered in Japan, the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, or Spain.
Outside Japan, applications were handled first come, first served. Nintendo used a different selection process in Japan, so the application method was not identical across all eligible countries. These were requirements for the 2024 program, not a guarantee of acceptance or a promise that a future test will use the same rules.
What changed in the 2025 repeat test?
Nintendo expanded the later test and added support for Nintendo Switch 2. The 2025 application window and test dates have both passed.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
| Detail | 2024 program | 2025 repeat |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum participants | As many as 10,000, according to Nintendo’s 2024 announcement. | As many as 40,000 worldwide, according to Nintendo’s 2025 announcement. |
| Eligible countries listed | Japan, United States, United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, and Spain. | Expanded to include Canada, Mexico, and Brazil in addition to the earlier eligible countries. |
| Supported hardware | Nintendo Switch. | Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2. |
| Group applications | Not stated for the 2024 program. | Groups of up to four were allowed. |
| Test dates | October 23-November 5, 2024. | July 28-August 10, 2025. |
| Application status | Closed. | Closed. |
For the later run, see Nintendo’s 2025 Playtest Program notice for its announcement details.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What to check if Nintendo announces another playtest
Do not assume a new recruitment round will repeat the earlier terms. Check Nintendo’s announcement for the details that determine whether you can apply and how selection works:
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
- How many participants Nintendo plans to accept.
- Eligible countries and minimum age.
- Whether an active Nintendo Switch Online membership is required, and which tier.
- Supported hardware, including whether Switch 2 is included.
- Whether applications are first come, first served or selected another way.
- Whether group applications are permitted, plus the application and test dates.
- Any confidentiality rules for participants.
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