The Nintendo Switch is less than two weeks away from launch. Though we know a fair amount about the system, there are still a lot of unknowns as the release draws closer.

Bit by bit, we've picked up new pieces of information on the Switch's infrastructure. In addition to the old Nintendo Network IDs and Nintendo Accounts, Nintendo recently updated its account pages with a new field. Check your Nintendo account page and you'll find a new User ID field. It's not certain what this does yet, but we assume it's the equivalent of your Gamertag on Xbox Live or a PlayStation Network username.

Even if you've been using a Nintendo Account, you should have a look at this field now to reserve your ID. It's definitely something that the Switch will use, so if you have a preferred online username, reserve it now.

In case you're confused, there are now three different Nintendo accounts:

  1. Your Nintendo Account is the highest level. You sign in with your email and can manage your other accounts through this app. It also connects to Nintendo's mobile game.
  2. The Nintendo Network ID is for the 3DS and Wii U. It lets you access the eShop and pseudo-link those consoles together.
  3. This new User ID field is new and presumably something for the Switch. This means that Nintendo Network ID will likely become a legacy field and won't appear on the Switch.

We'll know for sure what this field does when the Switch launches, as you'll probably confirm your ID during account creation if you don't do so beforehand. Make sure to reserve yours now if you plan on getting a Switch!

For more, check out essential aspects the Switch needs to succeed.

What do you think Nintendo will use this Online ID for? Let us know if you have a Switch pre-ordered!

Image Credit: Yuksal Sarkhanli via Shutterstock