Nintendo has rolled out a new software update for the Switch and Switch 2, bumping their firmware to Version 21.0.0. This update introduces a variety of enhancements aimed at improving user experience on both consoles, with notable upgrades to game management and Game Chat features.
Exciting New Features
The update brings several exciting new features to both consoles. Users will now see a symbol above software icons on the Home Menu, indicating whether a game is cartridge-based. Additionally, there’s an option to download virtual game card data even if the “Use Online License” setting is disabled.
Switch 2 users will receive a prompt to download bundled software, such as Mario Kart World, eliminating the need to input codes. The Game Chat feature also receives a boost, allowing for uninterrupted chatting even when the console is docked or switched to a wired connection.
Under-the-Hood Adjustments
In a quirky update, Nintendo has altered the battery-saving feature name from “stop charging around 90%” to “stop charging around 80-90%”. Fans have also reported additional tweaks not listed in the official notes, such as the ability to disable auto-playing videos in the eShop. Moreover, dataminers have discovered a new menu for viewing peak brightness values when adjusting HDR settings in TV mode.
These updates aim to enhance the overall user experience, providing more customization and smoother operation for gamers.
Patch Notes Highlights
Nintendo Switch Ver. 21.0.0 (Released November 10, 2025):
- Added symbols above software icons to indicate physical or digital versions.
- Option to download virtual game card data even with “Use Online License” off.
- Renamed “Platinum Point Notification Settings” to “Nintendo Switch Online Notification Settings”.
- Volume adjustments available from Quick Settings in VR mode.
- General system stability improvements.
Nintendo Switch 2 Ver. 21.0.0 (Released November 10, 2025)
- Bundle software download icon if connected to the internet.
- Friend request search now includes interactions from GameChat rooms.
- GameChat improvements to prevent games from sleeping during chats.
- New audio mode options for wireless controllers.
- Text-to-speech speed increased to 400%.
- HDR settings allow for improved screen adjustments.
- General system stability improvements.