November 11, 2025, 4:32 pm | Read time: 3 minutes
Nintendo has released System Update Version 21.0 for the Switch 2. While major changes are hard to find, numerous small improvements enhance everyday comfort with the console.
As reported by “mobiflip,” Nintendo describes the update as usual as an “update for general system stability improvements to optimize the user experience.” In addition to optimizations in design, operation, and system functions, the company has also published a complete list of all changes this time.
What’s in the Update
With Update Version 21.0, Nintendo brings numerous improvements to the Switch 2. The HOME menu gets new icons, multiple downloads can now be canceled simultaneously, and the system now supports two new languages. Nintendo has also revamped GameChat: Games no longer go into sleep mode while chatting, and the voice connection remains stable even when switching from TV to handheld mode.
Additionally, Nintendo has expanded audio and accessibility features. Pro Controller users can now switch between two options to optimize sound transmission. The text-to-speech function has been improved and updated linguistically. Alongside minor menu adjustments, such as screen size and charging options, Nintendo also promises improved system stability and performance. The complete and detailed list is available here:
HOME Menu and Software Management
- New icons above the software icons indicate whether a game is digital or physical.
- If more than one download is running, all ongoing downloads can now be canceled simultaneously.
- For console bundles with software downloads, a new “Receive Software” icon appears when the system is connected to the internet.
- The icon directly opens the Nintendo eShop to start the download.
- Alternatively, the software can still be accessed via the eShop in the HOME menu.
- Data can now be downloaded for virtual game cards, even if the “Use Online License” option is disabled.
- This setting is located under Options → Virtual Game Cards in the HOME menu.
Friends and Communication
- When searching for friends to add, the “Search for players you’ve played with” option now also considers people from GameChat rooms with whom you’ve interacted.
GameChat Improvements
- Games no longer automatically enter sleep mode during an active GameChat.
- A new setting allows “Chat Audio Panning” to be disabled.
- Chats remain active when the system switches from TV to handheld or tabletop mode–even when the internet connection changes from LAN to Wi-Fi.
Audio Settings
- For wirelessly connected Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controllers, there are now two audio modes:
- “Stable” for a constant connection
- “Low Latency” for reduced audio delays (may be more prone to interference in highly frequented radio environments).
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Accessibility
- With the text-to-speech function enabled, the system now also reads the description of prediction signs on the Japanese keyboard.
- The maximum speed of text-to-speech has been increased from 300 percent to 400 percent.
Display and System Settings
- “HDR Output” is now called “System Screen HDR Output.”
- The menu for adjusting screen size has been revised and is now easier to use.
- The “Platinum Point Notification” option has been renamed to “Nintendo Switch Online Notification.”
- The charging option “Stop Charging at About 90 Percent” has been expanded to “Stop Charging at About 80–90 Percent.”
- Thai and Polish have been added as new system languages
- These are only available in applications that support these languages.