Nintendo Switch update adds Virtual Game Cards and Switch 2 cloud transfer support

Nintendo is preparing for the release of the Switch 2 on June 5 by rolling out an update for the original Switch. The update adds support for features like Virtual Game Cards, which allows users to lend digital games to friends and family on the same Nintendo Family Account, but requires a local connection to another Switch system. The Switch 2 will also support this feature. The update also enables cloud transfers for those moving to the Switch 2, allowing users to transfer all their data to a new console. Users can also send their transfer data to the cloud, which can be useful for those planning to sell their Switch to fund a new purchase, but this will reset the console to its factory settings. Nintendo will store the data on its servers for one year, allowing users to complete the transfer or cancel and download the data back onto a Switch. The update also adds support for GameShare, a feature that enables local wireless multiplayer across several Switch systems, but this feature will only be available on the Switch 2 and can be shared with Switch, Switch Lite, and other Switch 2 units. The GameShare feature is not available yet, and only one person needs to own a copy of a compatible game to use this feature. The update is available now, and users can start using the Virtual Game Cards feature immediately. Overall, the update is laying the groundwork for the Switch 2's release and is providing users with more flexibility and options for game sharing and data transfer.