Tecnologia

Nintendo releases update 21.0.0 for Switch and Switch 2 with physical and digital game icons

Nintendo Switch 2
Foto: Nintendo Switch 2 - Foto: Matthieu Tuffet / Shutterstock.com

Nintendo distributed system update version 21.0.0 for the original Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 on Tuesday, November 11, 2025. This version introduces features that make it easier to identify physical and digital games in the home menu. The consoles receive improvements in download management and accessibility to increase usability.

The update comes amid the expansion of the Nintendo ecosystem, with the Switch 2 already available globally since the beginning of 2025. The company focuses on refinements to maintain compatibility between generations. Users report automatic installation when connecting to the internet.

Key additions include:

  • Symbols above icons in the HOME menu to differentiate physical and digital media.
  • Option to cancel all downloads in progress at once.
  • “Receive Software” icon for bundles with digital games, directly opening the eShop.

The measure meets the demands of players who manage mixed libraries.

Quick media identification

New symbols appear over game icons in the Switch and Switch 2 HOME menu. They indicate whether the title is physical or digital, simplifying daily navigation.

This functionality comes after user feedback about confusion in large libraries. Nintendo tested the feature in internal betas before a global launch.

Nintendo Switch
Nintendo Switch – Photo: luza studios/shutterstock.com

GameChat Improvements

GameChat gains continuity when switching TV and portable modes. Conversations persist even when switching from wired to wireless connections.

The option disables “Chat Audio Panning”, which adjusted sound by position. The console prevents automatic sleep mode during chats, prolonging multiplayer sessions.

  • Audio maintenance across mode transitions.
  • Panning control for personalized preferences.
  • Prevention of involuntary pauses in calls.

These changes benefit online games like Splatoon 3 and Mario Kart 8 Deluxe.

Expanded accessibility options

The Text-to-Speech function increases the maximum speed to 400%, compared to 300% previously. Predictive character reading on the Japanese keyboard now includes aloud descriptions.

Updates aim for greater inclusion, with testing in global communities. The feature covers more languages and everyday usage scenarios.

Thai and Polish support integrates with compatible software. Renaming menus, such as “HDR Output” to “System Screen’s HDR Output”, clarify settings.

Improvements to the size adjustment screen facilitate visual calibrations. These tools serve users with specific reading and navigation needs.

Audio and display adjustments

The Switch 2’s Pro Controller lets you switch audio modes between “Stable” and “Low Latency.” The latter reduces delays, but can pick up interference in noisy environments.

Renaming “Stop Charging at 90%” to “Stop Charging at 80–90%” reflects greater precision in battery management. On the original Switch, cloud backup updates display revised information when launching games.

Optimized data transfer

Migration from Switch to Switch 2 gains selective deactivation options. Players avoid automatic software redownloads or album transfers.

Volume adjustment via quick menu works in VR mode, expanding controls during immersions. Cloud data backup updates notifications for “Nintendo Switch Online.”

These refinements come after reports of slow initial migrations. Nintendo prioritizes general stability, with compatibility fixes for titles like Xenoblade Chronicles X Definitive Edition.

Downloading virtual card data continues without an active online license. The option is accessed via the HOME menu under “Virtual Game Cards”.

Melgeneral stability hours

Updates include fixes for eShop, avoiding reported post-installation crashes. Third-party docks face incompatibilities, but adapters like JSAUX maintain support.

Joy-Con and Pro Controller receive parallel updates for improved synchronization. Switch 2 camera also gets revised firmware.

Version 21.0.0 elevates the experience on both consoles, with a focus on everyday usability. Players update via system settings when connecting online.