GameChat evolves with new features
The update strengthens GameChat-related features, with several important additions:
- ability to invite friends into a current session
- invitation possible even if the friend has not completed the initial configuration
- improved quality of full screen screen sharing
Nintendo specifies, however, that certain restrictions may apply, particularly for supervised accounts.
A boost in portable mode
Without doubt THE major new feature of this updateimproved portable mode. It is designed for bring the performance of games in portable mode closer to the docked versions (in other words a rendering which is close to that displayed on a television).
How does the handheld mode improvement work on Switch 2?
First of all, know that the improvement only concerns games from the first Nintendo Switch. Nintendo specifies, however, that certain Switch games will not be affected by this functionality. This functionality allows for potentially more advanced graphics and better fluidity, however at the cost of increased energy consumption. Also note that activating this option disables the touch screen and transforms the attached Joy-Con 2 into a Pro-style controller. Finally, it will be necessary to detach these before connecting other controllers.
How to enable handheld mode enhancement on Switch 2?
To activate the option, go to:
- Console Settings
- Console
- How Nintendo Switch software works
Some examples with the option enabled and disabled
We were quickly able to try a few games and the result is quite obvious on titles which displayed a fairly low resolution in portable mode on Switch 1. We are thinking in particular of Xenoblade Chronicles 2 which greatly benefits from the functionality as you can see below with a much sharper rendering.
(left without improvement, right with improvement)
Others are seen a little less well even if we still note a small difference as for Pokémon Legends Arceus :
Private notes to organize your friends list
Version 22.0.0 also introduces a simple but practical feature, namely the ability to add personalized notes about friends. This content is strictly private and it is possible to modify or consult these notes via the mobile application (version 3.3.0 minimum)
Comfort improvements and new options
Several improvements enrich the user experience:
- enhanced video navigation with 10 seconds forward/backward (ZL/ZR) in the eShop
- new content compatible with automatic uploads (videos, modified captures)
- detailed storage display by data type
- ability to test audio in 5.1 surround
Visual adjustments have also been made to loading virtual game cards in the HOME menu.
Improved Airplane Mode and Accessibility
Airplane mode becomes a little more flexible with:
- memorization of Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and NFC preferences
- individual activation/deactivation from quick settings
With this 22.0.0 update, the Switch 2 gains a new strong argument for Switch 1 games which now benefit from a much cleaner portable mode. Let’s see how many titles really benefit from this advantage.