Nintendo Switch 2’s 23.0.0 system update brings variable refresh rate (VRR) support in TV mode for compatible televisions and games. For the feature to work, the game must support VRR, VRR must be enabled on the relevant HDMI input on the television, and the connection must provide sufficient bandwidth. VRR reduces tearing and uneven smoothness when the frame rate fluctuates, but it does not increase a low frame rate.
Why it matters
This change means that for players who use the Switch 2 connected to a television, visual smoothness now depends not only on the console’s performance but also on the compatibility of the display and connection chain. Therefore, installing the update alone will not be enough; the television settings, the HDMI input being used, and the game’s support will determine the user experience. Since VRR is intended not to increase the frame rate but to make fluctuations less distracting on screen, it should not be confused with a performance boost. This distinction means that if the feature does not work, the issue may need to be sought not only in the console but also in the game, television settings, or connection. Since the scope of supported games and televisions has not been specified, it remains unclear which users will actually be able to use the new feature.
Background
Switch is not a new name in the FikirPilot archive: we have published 4 news articles mentioning the name in the last 90 days; the latest is dated September 6, 2026.
Term: frame rate
Frame rate is the number of images drawn per second; the higher it is, the smoother motion appears.