We don't cover the Switch 2 often at XDA, but when we do, there's a good reason. The latest update to hit Nintendo's Switch 2 includes a feature the gaming giant calls "Handheld Mode Boost," which lets all compatible Switch titles run as if they're in TV Mode, increasing their resolution and frame rate considerably in some cases.

This means that if an original Switch game plays at 1080p/60fps in TV mode, it'll now run in handheld mode on the Switch 2 at that resolution and frame rate, taking better advantage of the new console's more powerful hardware.

This is a welcome quality-of-life update for Switch titles that makes a lot of sense, and looking back, I'm surprised Nintendo didn't include it with the Switch 2 at launch, especially given how sparse the launch lineup was. Sony and Microsoft offered similar last-generation upgrade features for notable games when the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X launched.

Version 22.0.0 should now be available on all Switch 2 consoles. To enable the feature, navigate to the Home Menu > System Settings > System Option > Nintendo Switch Software Handling > Handheld Mode Boost.

There are a few trade-offs

Still, this is a fantastic addition to the Switch 2

There are a few caveats to consider with Handheld Boost Mode, though. First off, some on-screen prompts won't mention handheld mode, which could be confusing with certain titles. On top of this, you can also expect the Switch 2's battery to drain faster, since the games are running at higher resolutions and frame rates. There are also issues with touchscreen controls, which makes sense given the games are running in TV Mode.

Check out Nintendo's support page for a full breakdown of some of the issues the Switch 2's new Handheld Boost Mode can potentially run into.

There are other new features in the update, too, including improvements to the GameChat game screen when it's expanded and the ability to view a breakdown of system memory storage capacity by data type.