How Nintendo’s Switch Nearly Ran on Cyanogen’s Android-Based OS
Nintendo’s innovative Switch console operates on a custom OS, but newly surfaced claims reveal it could have been powered by Android-based software from Cyanogen Inc.
The Revealing Tweet That Sparked Speculation
Former Cyanogen executive chairman Kirt McMaster recently disclosed in a since-deleted tweet that Nintendo approached his company to develop an operating system for an unspecified portable device. McMaster’s blunt response? “I told them to stick it.”
This revelation, first reported by XDA-Developers, offers fascinating insight into Nintendo’s behind-the-scenes development decisions.
Why Cyanogen Was a Logical Choice
At the time of the alleged proposal:
- CyanogenMod (Cyanogen’s flagship product) was the gold standard for custom Android ROMs
- The software dramatically improved performance on rooted devices
- The company had proven expertise in optimizing Android for diverse hardware
Timeline Points to the Nintendo Switch
Several factors suggest the “certain portable” was indeed the Switch:
- The Nintendo 3DS launched in 2011, predating Cyanogen’s prime influence
- Switch development would align with Cyanogen’s 2009-2017 operational period
- Console development cycles typically span multiple years
Nintendo’s Current OS: A Hybrid Approach
After the alleged Cyanogen rejection, Nintendo developed a custom operating system that:
- Incorporates elements of Unix-like FreeBSD
- May still include “bits of Android” (per McMaster’s claims)
- Runs efficiently on Nvidia’s Tegra X1 hardware
Technical Synergy With Nvidia Hardware
The Switch’s Tegra X1 processor shares DNA with Nvidia’s Android-based Shield TV, suggesting:
- Natural compatibility with Android code components
- Potential performance optimizations carried over
- Streamlined development process for Nintendo’s engineers
While we’ll never see CyanogenMod on a Nintendo device, this revelation highlights the fascinating crossroads of mobile and console operating systems in modern gaming hardware.
📚 Featured Products & Recommendations
Discover our carefully selected products that complement this article’s topics:
🛍️ Featured Product 1: Hestan GRR24 Hestan 24″ Outdoor Regrigerator Drawer With Lock – Grr
Image: Premium product showcase
Premium quality hestan grr24 hestan 24″ outdoor regrigerator drawer with lock – grr designed for professional use with excellent performance and reliability.
Key Features:
- Professional-grade quality standards
- Easy setup and intuitive use
- Durable construction for long-term value
- Excellent customer support included
🔗 View Product Details & Purchase
🛍️ Featured Product 2: Star Trek: The Original Series Be My Valentine Fleece Hoodie
Image: Premium product showcase
Carefully crafted star trek: the original series be my valentine fleece hoodie delivering superior performance and lasting value.
Key Features:
- Professional-grade quality standards
- Easy setup and intuitive use
- Durable construction for long-term value
- Excellent customer support included
🔗 View Product Details & Purchase
🛍️ Featured Product 3: Star Trek: The Original Series Be My Valentine Two-Tone Mug
Image: Premium product showcase
Premium quality star trek: the original series be my valentine two-tone mug designed for professional use with excellent performance and reliability.
Key Features:
- Professional-grade quality standards
- Easy setup and intuitive use
- Durable construction for long-term value
- Excellent customer support included
🔗 View Product Details & Purchase
💡 Need Help Choosing? Contact our expert team for personalized product recommendations!
