Nintendo has officially deployed firmware version 22.0.0 for both the Switch and the Switch 2. While the updates streamline the user experience across the board, the next-generation hardware received a particularly significant performance enhancement.
The standout addition is a new “Handheld Boost Mode” exclusive to the Switch 2. On original hardware, games typically throttle down to 720p resolution in portable mode to preserve battery and manage heat, only hitting 1080p when docked. This new setting allows the Switch 2 to run legacy software at full “TV Mode” fidelity while in the palm of your hands, effectively bumping the resolution to a crisp 1080p. However, this visual upgrade comes with a few technical caveats.
Because the system essentially tricks the software into thinking it is docked, certain functionalities may behave unexpectedly. Most notably, the touchscreen is disabled in this mode. Nintendo warns that “Handheld Mode Boost may prevent software from utilizing the system’s touch interface and will cause attached Joy-Con 2 controllers to be recognized as Pro Controllers.” Additionally, some on-screen button prompts or instructions may appear inaccurately due to the simulated docked state.
It is important to note that this feature is not enabled by default; users must manually toggle it within the system settings. You can find more granular details regarding the performance boost here.
Beyond hardware optimization, the update introduces several quality-of-life improvements. Players can now add personalized, private notes to their friends list to better keep track of online acquaintances. Other refinements include polished menu animations, GameChat stability upgrades, and new playback controls—such as rewind and fast-forward—for eShop trailers. Accessibility options have also been expanded to ensure a more inclusive gaming environment across both platforms.
