The latest Nintendo Switch firmware update has been released, and although one expert described it as a "major" update due to the extensive changes under the hood, it doesn't offer any hints about the upcoming Switch 2.
Version 19.0.0 was rolled out on October 7, bringing with it "general system stability improvements to enhance the user's experience," according to Nintendo's brief patch notes. Internet analyst OatmealDome, known for meticulously dissecting new Switch updates to uncover hidden modifications, stated that this update is significant because "pretty much every system component was updated." OatmealDome noted that this is typical for major updates, with the operating system being rebuilt on a newer SDK version.
OatmealDome speculated that the update might include changes "that are relevant for game developers." However, it's important not to jump to conclusions about the Switch 2 based on this update. "It could be something as straightforward as 'Nintendo changed the name of something, so now developers need to update their game code accordingly if they want to use the newer SDK,'" OatmealDome explained.
The Switch 2, or whatever Nintendo chooses to name its next home console, is currently in development and is expected to be announced in the near future. Nintendo's next earnings report is scheduled for November 5, and some anticipate the Switch 2 announcement around that time, though nothing is confirmed at this point.
