You won’t be able to use the Nintendo Switch 2 properly next week if you don’t connect to the internet and update the console. According to a snapshot of the retail box, the console doesn’t ship with MicroSD Express functionality enabled out of the box.
Nintendo has stated on the retail packaging that a “system update is required to use a MicroSD Express memory card”. This seemingly confirms that the console’s MicroSD Express slot is likely disabled until the console is updated with the latest firmware to enable it.
We don’t know what other aspects of the Nintendo Switch 2 won’t function correctly if you don’t install the latest update. However, I can guess the console might not work properly given how Nintendo shipped stock around the world all the way back in March.
This stock has a much older system software installed, which has likely been changed and improved on since. I would also guess that Nintendo has locked down the console to not work without an update in order to prevent leaked units from operating. The update is likely going live on launch day, rendering all possible leaked units useless until then.
Reports also claim that Nintendo isn’t allowing any early access to the Switch 2 at all. Media have reported that even review units have been held back until launch day. So this software update scenario makes sense.
Retail stock of then Nintendo Switch 2 has already begun appearing in certain stores in the US. The Nintendo Switch 2 launches next week on 5 June. The official specs and detailed breakdown of the hardware were covered last week. Be sure to also catch up on our pre-order guide, the full list of announced games, and all the games that will be released at launch and after here.
Source: GBA Temp
