Switch 2 VRR Feature Confirmed Only for Handheld Mode

Early April saw Nintendo Switch 2 fans spotting - then quickly disappearing - references to variable refresh rate (VRR) in the console's technical specifications. Nintendo has now clarified exactly how VRR functionality will work on its upcoming system.

In a statement to NintendoLife, the company explained: "VRR support is currently available exclusively for handheld mode on Nintendo Switch 2. The initial inclusion of broader VRR support on our website was published in error, and we sincerely apologize for the confusion."

When questioned about potential VRR support for docked mode through future firmware updates, Nintendo responded: "We have no announcements to make regarding this matter at this time."

This confirmation means while portable gamers will benefit from VRR technology at launch, television players won't initially have access to this display enhancement feature.

The clarification follows weeks of speculation after Digital Foundry contributor Oliver Mackenzie tracked the gradual removal of VRR mentions across various Nintendo informational pages.

Though disappointing for home console users, all may not be lost - Sony similarly added VRR support to PlayStation 5 via post-launch firmware update, suggesting Nintendo could potentially follow suit.

In related Switch 2 developments, Nintendo recently revealed a selection of games receiving free performance enhancements for the new hardware, including Pokémon Scarlet & Violet and Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury. Nintendo of America president Doug Bowser also reassured consumers that the company plans to have "ample Switch 2 inventory available throughout the holiday season."