Nintendo has rolled out another system update for the Switch mere days before the highly anticipated Switch 2 arrives.
According to the concise patch notes, Nintendo Switch System Update Ver. 20.1.0 brings minor modifications - including the ever-present "general system stability" improvements.
The Sound of Change
More notably, the firmware introduces visual updates to parental control settings and modifies the startup sound when launching Nintendo Switch Online from the Home Menu. The new tone presents a brighter, more energetic vibe - likely previewing the auditory experience Switch 2 users will encounter.
Tech enthusiast @Nexusvoyager shared a before-and-after comparison:
Before and after the update pic.twitter.com/HC71TFztS9
— The Ashen Nexus. (@Nexusvoyager) May 28, 2025
The update also introduces new navigation sounds and revamps the NSO app interface, presumably aligning it with Switch 2's upcoming design language.
After a relaunch the app completely changed its ui pic.twitter.com/h07hoSOOOt
— The Ashen Nexus. (@Nexusvoyager) May 28, 2025
Theming Enhancements
Switch firmware expert @OatmealDome discovered UI refinements including renamed Basic themes ("White" to "Light" and "Black" to "Dark") and improved dark theme support.
[Nintendo Switch Firmware Update]
Some theme-related changes were made in 20.1.0.
• Renamed "Basic White" and "Basic Black" to "Basic Light" and "Basic Dark"
• Nintendo Switch Online app now supports Basic Dark theme— OatmealDome (@OatmealDome) May 28, 2025
This update proves essential for those planning local system transfers to Switch 2 launching June 5.
The update follows recent Switch 2 revelations including Mario Kart World experiences, backward compatibility upgrades, variable refresh rate details, and GameChat verification requirements.
Update Highlights (Ver. 20.1.0)
- Redesigned Parental Control interface
- Updated Nintendo Switch Online startup sound
- Enhanced system stability
- Theme naming conventions revised
- Improved dark mode support
Nintendo confirms ample Switch 2 stock availability for holiday shoppers despite rapid pre-order sellouts.
