Nintendo has officially introduced variable refresh rate (VRR) support for the Switch 2 when used in TV mode. This functionality, which was previously restricted to handheld play, arrived as part of the console's version 23.0.0 firmware update released on September 10, 2026. To utilize the feature, users must update both their console and their Switch 2 dock.
VRR technology dynamically adjusts a display's refresh rate to synchronize with the output of the console. By matching these rates, the system aims to mitigate screen tearing and reduce the visual impact of frame rate fluctuations during gameplay. This implementation brings the Switch 2 in line with other modern gaming platforms, such as the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S, which already support the feature.
Enabling the feature requires a compatible television or monitor, an updated console, and a dock that has received the necessary firmware update. Additionally, individual game titles must be updated by developers to support VRR mode in TV settings. Games that have not been updated to be VRR-compliant will continue to run without the feature enabled, even if the hardware and display support it.
Beyond the addition of VRR, the 23.0.0 update introduces several other system-level changes. Users can now perform a full system data transfer between two Switch 2 consoles, a feature intended to simplify the process of moving save files and data to new hardware. The update also adds a handheld boost mode toggle within the quick settings menu.
The Mii editor has also received a minor update, allowing users to play background music during the creation process. This includes nostalgic tracks from previous Nintendo platforms like the Wii, 3DS, and Wii U, with controls to swap or stop the music directly from the interface. These additions arrive as Nintendo prepares for upcoming hardware releases, including a themed console variant scheduled for next month.