Nintendo Switch 2 System Update 22.1.0: Full Patch Notes

Nintendo has released firmware version 22.1.0 for both the Nintendo Switch and the Nintendo Switch 2. The update, which became available on April 6, 2026, is designed to improve the overall stability of both hybrid gaming platforms.

According to official notices from Nintendo, the primary objective of this update is to provide General system stability improvements to enhance the user’s experience.

Technical Context and Deployment

This latest firmware release follows a significantly larger system update, version 22.0.0, which was deployed in March 2026. Version 22.0.0 was characterized as the largest update to date for the Nintendo Switch 2, introducing several substantial features, and adjustments.

Industry analysts and reporting from Nintendo Life suggest that version 22.1.0 is intended to address bugs and smooth out technical issues that may have surfaced following the rollout of the 22.0.0 update.

For the majority of users, the update is configured to download and install automatically. However, users who prefer manual installation can trigger the process through the system settings menu.

Previous Feature Implementations

While version 22.1.0 focuses on stability, it builds upon the functional changes introduced in the preceding month. One of the most notable additions in the version 22.0.0 update for the Nintendo Switch 2 was the Handheld Mode Boost.

The Handheld Mode Boost feature allows users to run Nintendo Switch software on the Nintendo Switch 2 while in handheld mode as if the system were connected to a television in TV Mode.

the previous update introduced Friend List notes, a feature that was made available for both the original Nintendo Switch and the Nintendo Switch 2.

Upcoming Software Releases

The timing of the 22.1.0 firmware release precedes several upcoming software launches. The update arrives ahead of the release of the free-to-start Pokémon Champions, scheduled for the week of April 6, 2026.

the stability improvements are expected to be in place before the launch of Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream, which is scheduled for release the following week.

Nintendo has advised users to ensure their systems are updated to the latest version to maintain access to the newest content and to continue utilizing online gaming services.