Nintendo Switch Update 20.0.0 Unveils Icon Revamp and Switch 2 Transfer Features

Nintendo has launched a fresh firmware update for the Switch, gearing up for the Switch 2 debut.

The Nintendo Switch Firmware Version 20.0.0 introduces several pivotal updates to the eight-year-old console, aligning with the upcoming Switch 2 launch in June, per the patch notes on Nintendo’s official site.

A standout feature is the new system transfer option to the Nintendo Switch 2, now accessible in System Settings. This enables a seamless transfer from your Switch to the Switch 2 via local communication.

If you lose access to your Switch before acquiring a Switch 2, you can upload transfer data to a dedicated server for retrieval on your Switch 2.

Be aware that initiating this transfer resets the Switch to factory settings. Nintendo advises performing this only if you’re certain you can complete the process on the Switch 2. Otherwise, opt for the local communication transfer after securing your Switch 2.

Some Switch users planning to sell or trade their original console for a Switch 2 are eager to use this transfer feature, as it eliminates the need to retain their old device. However, others are wary of the factory reset requirement and express concerns about potential data loss on Nintendo’s server.

Additionally, the update refreshes several user icons, with the community spotlighting changes like Donkey Kong’s updated icon, reflecting designs from upcoming Switch 2 exclusives Donkey Kong Bananza and Mario Kart World.

Some Icon Redesigns in the new Switch Update
byu/thetripp45 inNintendoSwitch

New icons for Virtual Game Cards and GameShare have also been added to the Home menu, paving the way for the Switch 2 launch.

Nintendo Switch Firmware Version 20.0.0 Patch Notes

Ver. 20.0.0 (Released April 29, 2025)

The following icons for new features have been added to the HOME Menu:Virtual Game CardPurchased Nintendo Switch digital software, DLC, and select free software are now virtual game cards, displayed in a dedicated menu list.You can load and eject virtual game cards across up to two Nintendo Switch systems.Virtual game cards can be shared with others in the same Nintendo Account family group. For details, refer to the Virtual Game Card Guide.GameShareCompatible software can be shared from a Nintendo Switch 2 to nearby systems for multiplayer gaming.Only local wireless play is supported, and the Nintendo Switch 2 must initiate GameShare.This feature is not available between two Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch – OLED Model, or Nintendo Switch Lite systems.User-Verification Settings has been added under User > User Settings.You can secure the Virtual Game Card menu by requiring a PIN or Nintendo Account sign-in.Online License Settings has been introduced.When enabled, you can play purchased software or DLC online, even without a loaded virtual game card.For more details, check the System Settings screen.The Nintendo eShop and Nintendo Switch News icon colors on the HOME Menu have been updated.Multiple save data files can now be selected and transferred simultaneously in the “Transfer Your Save Data” menu.System Transfer to Nintendo Switch 2 has been added under System Settings > System.You can transfer data from your Nintendo Switch to a Nintendo Switch 2 using local communication.For users unable to access their Nintendo Switch before receiving their Switch 2, an option to upload transfer data to a dedicated server is available, retrievable on the Switch 2. After uploading, the Nintendo Switch will reset to factory settings, so only proceed if you can complete the transfer on the Switch 2.If you plan to keep using your Nintendo Switch until you have a Switch 2, perform the local communication transfer after acquiring the Switch 2.An internet connection and Nintendo Account are required for both local and server-based transfers.For more details, see System Transfer from Nintendo Switch to Nintendo Switch 2.Some user icons have been visually updated.

For comprehensive details on the Nintendo Switch 2, visit the Nintendo website.

The term “Primary Console” has been phased out with the shift to virtual game cards, replaced by “Pass-enabled console.” On a “Pass-enabled console,” all users can access certain subscriptions or passes for select software. For more information, see How to Set or Change the Pass-Enabled Console for a Nintendo Account.

Did you secure a Nintendo Switch 2 preorder?

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The excitement builds for the Nintendo Switch 2, set to launch on June 5. Pre-orders opened on April 24, priced at $449.99 — selling out rapidly as anticipated. Meanwhile, Nintendo has cautioned U.S. customers who pre-ordered through the My Nintendo Store, noting that high demand may delay launch-day delivery.

Explore IGN’s Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order guide for more details.