Nintendo is gearing up to launch its much-anticipated Switch 2 console on June 5, 2025, and excitement is clearly in the air. But amid all the buzz and pre-order hype, there’s one very specific—and surprisingly crucial—note from Nintendo that new owners shouldn’t overlook: do not peel off the pre-installed film on the screen. It might seem like just another bit of packaging, something you’d naturally strip away right after unboxing. But this one’s different.
A Crucial Safety Feature, Not Just Packaging
Unlike the standard peel-off plastic you’ll find on other gadgets, this screen film isn’t temporary. It’s built into the design for a reason. According to the official Nintendo Switch 2 Health and Safety manual—already available online thanks to Nintendo of Europe—the console’s display includes what’s called an “anti-scattering adhesive film.”
In plain terms? It’s there to keep the screen from becoming a hazard if it cracks. The manual is very direct on this point: “The screen is covered with a film layer designed to prevent fragments scattering in the event of damage. Do not peel it off.” That’s not just a friendly suggestion—it’s an important safety measure.
So if the screen were ever to take a hit and shatter, that film would essentially hold the broken glass in place. No loose shards. No surprise injuries.
This isn’t entirely new. Nintendo had a similar layer on the OLED version of the original Switch. But this time, the company is putting more emphasis on it—probably because too many people peeled the first one off without realizing what it was.
Why This Warning Really Matters
A lot of us have that instinct to remove protective films the moment we unbox a device. It feels satisfying, like you’re “freeing” the tech from its packaging. But in this case, following that impulse could backfire.
The Switch 2 isn’t cheap. With a launch price around $449.99, it’s an investment—and exposing the bare screen by removing that safety film could make the console more vulnerable if it’s ever dropped or damaged.
It’s also worth noting: this isn’t a screen protector in the traditional sense. It’s not meant to guard against scratches. Its main job is to hold shattered pieces together in case the display breaks. Still, if you’re worried about scratches, Nintendo has confirmed you can safely apply a third-party screen protector on top of the built-in film. No need to remove it first. That way, you get scratch protection without losing the structural safety layer underneath.
More Cautions from Nintendo
The screen film isn’t the only point of concern. Nintendo’s manual includes a handful of other tips and precautions designed to help owners get the most out of their Switch 2. A few worth remembering:
- Charge regularly: Nintendo recommends charging the console’s built-in battery at least once every six months. Letting it sit dead for too long could prevent it from charging at all.
- Avoid harsh environments: Using the console in dusty or smoky conditions could compromise the internals—and even the screen clarity.
- Watch the temperature: Exposing the device to fire, microwaves (obviously), direct sunlight, or extreme hot or cold can seriously damage both the electronics and the battery.
All of this is aimed at helping the console last as long as possible. It’s not just about keeping it looking new—it’s about safety, stability, and reliability.
What to Expect from the Switch 2
Of course, part of what’s fueling all this excitement is what the Switch 2 brings to the table. Nintendo has packed in some serious upgrades this time around.
There’s a 7.9-inch LCD screen pushing 1080p resolution with up to a 120Hz refresh rate in handheld mode. When docked, it’ll even support 4K output at 60fps. The new Joy-Con 2 controllers connect magnetically and can function like a mouse in compatible games—a pretty clever twist. You’ll also get 256GB of internal storage, which you can expand via microSD Express cards.
On the communication front, GameChat adds built-in voice and video chat, plus screen sharing. And game-wise, the lineup looks stacked: Mario Kart World, revamped editions of Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom, and even third-party blockbusters like Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition and Hogwarts Legacy. Oh, and yes—it’ll still play most of your old Switch games.
Protecting Your Investment
At the end of the day, Nintendo isn’t being picky here—it’s being practical. That pre-applied film on the Switch 2’s screen isn’t an extra, and it’s not optional. It’s part of what keeps the console safe and user-friendly, even in worst-case scenarios.
