Nintendo has released firmware update version 23.0.0 for both the Switch and Switch 2. This update brings VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) support in docked mode to the Switch 2, along with various adjustments to GameChat, Virtual Game Cards, data transfer, and other features.
Switch 2 Main Updates:
Docked ModeOfficially supports VRR output. When both the game and TV support this feature, video will be output at a refresh rate matching the game's processing speed. Enabling this feature requires updating the Nintendo Switch 2 Dock.
Regarding GameChat, new features include displaying previously participated chat logs, joining new chats without selecting friends, and adding a button to change screen size in the menu that appears when pressing the C button during a chat.
Regarding Data Transfer, the Switch 2 now supports "Full Data Transfer" between two Switch 2 consoles, allowing all content, including save data and screenshots, to be transferred from the old unit to the new one. A new option, "System" → "Transfer All to Nintendo Switch 2," has been added to System Settings.
Regarding Virtual Game Cards, a "Settings" option has been added to the list interface, allowing users to check the registration status of Virtual Game Cards on the device. Additionally, if a Virtual Game Card cannot be transferred because another console is offline, the software can be temporarily played using an online license upon launch. This feature is limited to the purchaser only.
Regarding Settings and Accessibility, a "Display" → "VRR Settings" option has been added; "Display" → "Dock Output Information" has been renamed to "Video Output Information," allowing users to view details of video signals supported by their TV; "Audio" → "TV Sound" settings are now saved separately for each connected TV; and "Accessibility" now supports Brazilian Portuguese text-to-speech and Game Chat speech-to-text. The Mii feature now includes the ability to generate QR codes and share them with other users.
Additionally, a new option "System" → "Switch Software Running Mode" → "Toggle Handheld Mode Enhancement in Quick Settings" has been added to System Settings. When enabled, holding the HOME button allows toggling Handheld Mode Enhancement in the quick menu. With Handheld Mode Enhancement active, other controllers can be used even if Joy-Con (R) is attached to the console. In "My Page" → "Profile" play records, playtime for the same software across multiple consoles is now combined.
Switch Main Updates:
A "Settings" option has been added to the Virtual Game Card list interface to check the device's registration status. Same as the Switch 2, if a Virtual Game Card cannot be transferred from another console, it can be temporarily played using an online license, limited to the purchaser only.
Both consoles have had several issues fixed and improved operational stability.
VRR was previously limited to handheld mode on the Switch 2, but this update enables it in docked mode as well. This feature dynamically adjusts the TV's refresh rate to match the game's frame rate, providing a smoother experience.