Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 Receive OS Update 20.3.0 — Minor Tweaks, Possible HDR Changes

Nintendo has released version 20.3.0 of its operating system for both the original Nintendo Switch and the newer Switch 2. The update is now available for download and, while the official changelog is brief, some users are noticing subtle changes to their console’s settings.

A Familiar Update With a Familiar Message

The 20.3.0 update, released on July 28, 2025, follows Nintendo’s consistent pattern of iterative improvements. According to the official patch notes, this version delivers only a single listed change:

“General system stability improvements to enhance the user’s experience.”

This language is typical of Nintendo’s maintenance releases, which often address backend optimizations and bug fixes without revealing much detail. Still, even these seemingly minor updates can have a visible impact on user experience—especially for Switch 2 owners.

Unannounced Change: HDR Settings Affected?

Shortly after the update's release, users on social media began reporting changes to HDR settings on the Switch 2. Several players noted that the system appeared to reset HDR configurations or alter how high dynamic range visuals were handled when docked.

Opinions vary on whether the image quality has improved or deteriorated, but those experiencing degraded visuals can manually recalibrate HDR settings. To do so:

1. Open System Settings
2. Go to the Display tab
3. Scroll down to Adjust HDR

This option lets users fine-tune color balance when sending HDR output to a compatible TV or monitor.

Just above this is the HDR Output dropdown. Most users are advised to set this to "Compatible Software Only" instead of enabling HDR globally. Doing so can help avoid washed-out or overexposed visuals in games that weren’t designed with HDR in mind.

Update Cadence Continues at a Steady Pace

This marks the second OS update in July 2025 and the fourth since the Switch 2 launched on June 5. The previous version, 20.2.0, reportedly reset the brightness slider—a change that was either unintended or linked to a backend adjustment.

If Nintendo maintains its current release rhythm, players can expect more updates—possibly several—before the end of 2025.

Summary: Nintendo Switch/ Switch 2 Update 20.3.0

• Release Date: July 28, 2025
• Version: 20.3.0
• Official Changes:

General system stability improvements

• Unofficial Observations:

1. Possible changes to HDR settings on Switch 2
2. No reset of brightness settings (unlike update 20.2.0)