On September 10, Nintendo released a major system update covering both the Switch and Switch 2 families. Version 23.0.0 introduces a long-awaited feature for Switch 2 users: VRR support in TV mode.

VRR Support Arrives in TV Mode

Switch 2 already supported variable refresh rate (VRR) on its built-in 7.9-inch display, but this smooth gameplay experience wasn’t available when connected to a TV. With the 23.0.0 update, VRR now works in TV mode on compatible televisions, syncing the TV’s refresh rate in real time with your game’s frame rate. To enable this feature, first update your official dock, then activate the VRR option from the display settings menu. The menu previously called “Dock Output Information” is now renamed “Video Output Information” and now shows detailed signal support for your connected TV.

Full Data Transfer Between Consoles

The update also adds a “full data transfer” feature between two Switch 2 consoles. This allows you to move all your data, including save files and screenshots, from your old Switch 2 to a new device. System transfer from the original Switch to a Switch 2 is also now possible.

Using Other Controllers in Handheld Mode

With this update, you can now use additional controllers while Handheld Boost Mode is active, even if Joy-Con 2 controllers are attached. Handheld Mode Boost can now be toggled directly from the Quick Settings menu.

GameChat and Other Improvements

• The list of available chats now includes chats you’ve previously joined.
• You can now start a new chat even without inviting any friends.
• A new option to adjust screen size has been added to the menu that appears when pressing the C Button during a chat.
• A new setting in the HOME Menu’s Virtual Game Cards section lets you review and manage which consoles can use your virtual game cards.
• If a virtual game card cannot be removed from another console because it’s offline or powered off, you’ll now see a prompt to use an online license to start the game. Only the user who purchased the software can use this online license.
• Mii Maker now features background music like on the Wii, with three tracks to choose from, and Miis can now be shared between consoles via QR code.
• Accessibility settings now include text-to-speech and GameChat speech-to-text translation support for Brazilian Portuguese.
• Audio settings now let you save separate preferences for each connected TV.

Fewer Changes for the Original Switch

For first-generation Switch owners, patch notes are brief. The main addition is the ability to start games with a temporary online license if a virtual game card cannot be transferred from another console. The update also brings general system stability improvements for both console families.

Currently Only One Game Supports TV VRR

While the new TV VRR feature is expected to be widely adopted, only one game currently supports it at this time. More games are expected to add VRR support through future updates.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do I need to use VRR in TV mode on Switch 2?

You need to update your official Switch 2 dock and enable the VRR option in display settings. Your TV must also support VRR.

Does the 23.0.0 update affect the original Switch?

Yes, but changes are limited. The main update is the ability to use virtual game cards with an online license, plus general stability improvements.

How does full data transfer between consoles work?

You can transfer all your data, including save files and screenshots, between two Switch 2 consoles. This is especially useful when upgrading to a new device.