Nintendo has issued a new firmware update for the Switch console, version 20.0.1, on May 2, 2025, in response to widespread user reports that the previous update, version 20.0.0, caused critical system errors. The primary purpose of this follow-up update is to address a serious flaw that triggered Error Code 2206-1015, which in some cases prevented affected consoles from restarting properly. This issue led to growing concern across the community, with several users fearing their consoles had been bricked.
Version 20.0.0 was originally released with general stability improvements, but shortly afterward, reports began surfacing on platforms such as Reddit from users who found their systems rendered inoperable. One user reported encountering Error Code 2002-4687 immediately after the update, followed by persistent boot failures even after attempting all recommended troubleshooting steps, including removing microSD cards, formatting storage devices, and conducting both soft and full system resets via recovery mode. Another user described an endless error loop involving codes 2206-1014 and 2206-1015, despite attempting forced shutdowns and restarts.
Nintendo has acknowledged the problem and now encourages affected users to install version 20.0.1 through Maintenance Mode, which can be accessed by holding the power button and volume buttons simultaneously while booting the system. This mode allows firmware updates to be applied without initiating the normal operating environment, which is especially useful for consoles unable to boot properly.
Nintendo Switch System Update 20.0.1 Patch Notes:
Version 20.0.1 (Released May 2, 2025):
- Fixed an issue where Error Code: 2206-1015 sometimes occurred when restarting the system after updating to system version 20.0.0.
- Users experiencing this issue are advised to update their console using Maintenance Mode.
While the new firmware appears to resolve the most critical failure introduced in version 20.0.0, it remains unclear how many devices were affected before the fix became available. At this time, Nintendo has not announced whether further compensation or repair services will be offered to users whose consoles remain non-functional.
