Nintendo has just unveiled the first firmware update of 2025 for the Switch 1, and it’s making waves. With the highly anticipated launch of Switch 2 on June 5 just around the corner, this update brings exciting new features to the HOME Menu, including Virtual Game Cards and GameShare enhancements, along with a smooth console data transfer option to Switch 2 systems.
For all the juicy details, dive into the full update below:
Ver. 20.0.0 (Released April 29, 2025)
- The HOME Menu has received fresh icons for brand-new features:
- Virtual Game Card
- Now, purchased Nintendo Switch digital software, DLC, and select free titles are represented as virtual game cards, conveniently listed in this menu.
- Seamlessly load and eject virtual game cards between two Nintendo Switch systems.
- Share your virtual game cards with others in your Nintendo Account family group. For more details, refer to the Virtual Game Card Guide.
- GameShare
- Share compatible software from a Nintendo Switch 2 system to nearby systems for shared play.
- This feature works only via local wireless, initiated by the Nintendo Switch 2.
- Note: GameShare is not supported between two Nintendo Switch systems, including the OLED Model and Lite versions.
- User-Verification Settings can now be found under User > User Settings.
- Control access to the Virtual Game Card menu with a PIN or by signing into your Nintendo Account.
- Online License Settings have been introduced.
- This feature enables you to play downloaded software or DLC while connected to the internet, even without the virtual game card loaded.
- Further details can be found in the System Settings screen.
- The icon colors for the Nintendo eShop and Nintendo Switch News on the HOME Menu have been refreshed.
- You can now select and transfer multiple save data at once in the “Transfer Your Save Data” menu.
- System Transfer to Nintendo Switch 2 has been added under System Settings > System.
- Transfer your data from a Nintendo Switch to Switch 2 using local communication.
- If you'll lose access to your current console before receiving the Switch 2, you can upload your system transfer data to a dedicated server for easy retrieval on your new system. Be cautious: Your current Switch will reset to factory settings, so ensure you can complete the transfer on Switch 2.
- For those wanting to keep using their Switch until acquiring the Switch 2, we recommend transferring data locally once you have the new console.
- An internet connection and a Nintendo Account are required for both transfer methods.
- Some user icons have received visual updates.
For comprehensive information about Nintendo Switch 2, check the official Nintendo website.
As a quick note, the term “Primary Console” has been phased out in favor of “Pass-enabled console” with the shift to virtual game cards. On a console designated as the “Pass-enabled console” for a user, all users can access specific subscriptions or passes for various software. For more information, see How to Set or Change the Pass-Enabled Console for a Nintendo Account.