Nintendo’s Latest Switch 2 Update: Bricking Third-Party Docks or Not?
The latest firmware update for the Nintendo Switch 2, released on Tuesday, has sparked controversy among users. While the update brought some minor improvements, it appears to have inadvertently caused issues with third-party docks.
Many Switch 2 owners are reporting that their third-party docks are no longer functioning after downloading firmware update 21.0.0. This problem seems to affect dock dongles, which plug directly into the Switch, rather than the standard cradle-style docks.
The Controversy:
The key issue lies in the compatibility of these third-party docks with the new firmware. Nintendo’s statement to CNET suggests that the update doesn’t intentionally hinder third-party docks, but the problem persists.
A History of Issues:
This isn’t the first time Nintendo’s firmware updates have caused compatibility problems. In 2018, the 5.0.0 update for the original Switch led to similar issues with third-party docks. A Wired report in 2019 further explained how some docks attempted to emulate the official Nintendo dock’s quick connections, potentially causing hardware damage if the USB-C port wasn’t firmly connected during manufacturing.
What’s Next?
It’s uncertain if a future firmware update can fix the current problem. Additionally, dock manufacturers might struggle to provide a solution through firmware updates.
Other Changes in Update 21.0.0:
Beyond the dock issues, the update included some helpful features. It improved text descriptions in settings, allowed canceling multiple software downloads simultaneously, and added icons to indicate physical or digital software versions. The latter change relates to the Game-Key Card feature, which is used for games that require downloading game files.
Nintendo’s Advice:
Nintendo advises Switch owners to prioritize official Nintendo products for optimal system performance.
The debate continues as users grapple with the implications of this update. What do you think? Are third-party docks a risky choice for Switch owners? Share your thoughts in the comments!