Key Highlights
- BBC Newsround presenters hold Nintendo Switch controllers for a specific purpose.
- The Joy-Cons serve as a method to control the script on an autocue during broadcasts.
- This technique allows presenters to scroll through scripts at their own pace, improving engagement with young viewers.
Why BBC Newsround Presenters Hold Nintendo Switch Controllers
You might think this is new, but… the practice has been ongoing since at least 2024. Yes, you read that right: the beloved children’s news programme, BBC Newsround, uses Joy-Cons from Nintendo Switch controllers to control their autocue scripts.
The Autocue System
For those not in the know, an autocue is a device used by presenters to help them read out prepared scripts during live broadcasts. Traditionally, these move at a fixed speed on a rolling screen. But with Newsround, things are different.
The Joy-Cons’ Role
Emma-Louise Amanshia, one of the long-standing presenters, explained in a TikTok post that they use the controllers to navigate through the script at their own pace. “Sometimes people ask why we hold a Nintendo Switch controller on Newsround,” she admitted, “which is such a fair question because it is weird.” Her point was that this method allows them to read more naturally and engage with the content in real-time.
The buttons beneath the joystick enable additional functions like returning to the start of the script. Emma-Louise praised someone for transforming these controllers into useful tools, making what could have been a mundane task feel more dynamic.
Why Not Use Regular Remotes?
Viewers questioned why they didn’t just use regular remotes. One commenter noted that Joy-Cons are compact and less distracting while still being recognizable to young viewers. Another suggested the controllers might be cheaper than industrial equivalents designed for professional use.
The Impact on Newsround
Newsround, now in its 54th year (as of February 2026), has always aimed to deliver news and current affairs to children in an engaging manner. The use of Joy-Cons is just one example of how the programme keeps up with technological advancements while maintaining its unique charm.
From Ricky Boleto to Emma-Louise Amanshia, the seven presenters on Newsround have a combined experience spanning decades. This longevity speaks to the show’s enduring appeal and its ability to evolve alongside younger generations.
The next time you watch Newsround, take note of those controllers. They might seem like an oddity, but they’re actually a clever solution to a practical problem, ensuring that the news remains accessible and interesting for children.
