Launched on June 5, 2025, the Nintendo Switch 2 continues its evolution with a new system update released on November 24. This version 21.0.1 aims to improve the overall stability of the hybrid console, but not only that. It also fixes several technical bugs which directly affected gaming comfort, particularly during transfers between consoles.
While the Switch 2 is off to a solid commercial start despite some controversies linked to its price, Nintendo is increasing its efforts to ensure a smooth experience for its users. The timing is not trivial: the end of the year is a strategic period with a series of major games recently released or to come, such as Kirby Air Riders (November 20) and Metroid Prime 4: Beyond (scheduled for December 4).
What concrete fixes does update 21.0.1 bring?
Unlike past updates often considered anecdotal, this one targets two specific problems that complicated the lives of players. The first concerned data transfers between the classic Switch and the Switch 2 via local communication. Nintendo says it has “fixed an issue where error codes 2011-0301 or 2168-0002 appeared repeatedly on a Nintendo Switch when attempting to transfer systems to a Switch 2.”
Another concern addressed: the connectivity of Bluetooth controllers and accessories. Some players were experiencing an inability to reconnect their wireless devices after going to sleep or deactivating airplane mode. Again, Nintendo claims to have “fixed an issue where sometimes, after waking up from sleep mode or turning off airplane mode, wireless controllers or Bluetooth audio devices could not connect.”
Added to this are the usual “general improvements to system stability to improve the user experience”, even if their precise effect remains difficult to measure for the general public.
What should players do to benefit from this update?
Good news: no manual download is required in the majority of cases. Nintendo specifies that version 21.0.1 “should be automatically downloaded”, but still recommends checking in the system settings menu that the installation was successful. This concerns both the Switch 2 and the original model, which also benefits from these same fixes.
The context of this update is revealing: Nintendo is actively preparing for the end-of-year holidays, a key period for boosting sales of its new console. And if the next releases, like Metroid Prime 4 or Kirby Air Riders, will undoubtedly not compete with a blockbuster like Mario Kart World, they could well be enough to maintain interest around the Switch 2… provided that the technique follows.
Anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 games add pressure
While the spotlight is on upcoming major titles, Nintendo has no room for technical error. Millions of players are impatiently awaiting the next adventures from flagship licenses like Fire Emblem, Animal Crossing or even Mario. Fixing bugs as targeted as data transfer or Bluetooth may seem minor, but it helps build confidence in the console, especially among new buyers.
With the end of the year approaching, it remains to be seen whether other updates will occur between now and then. In the meantime, 21.0.1 is a small technical step but a real relief for many users.