Nintendo has once again found itself in the spotlight, this time due to a recent firmware update that has left some users facing significant challenges. A senior reporter, who has been diligently covering the evolution of gadgets and technology since 2011, reports that following the release of the V20.0.0 firmware earlier this week, numerous Nintendo Switch users encountered a frustrating problem: their consoles were unable to boot up and displayed an error code after they applied the update and restarted their systems.

In response to the widespread outcry from affected users, Nintendo quickly acknowledged the issue and rolled out a subsequent update, dubbed V20.0.1, this morning. This new update is designed specifically to address the boot-up bug that many Switch owners have been grappling with. However, its important to note that for those users experiencing the troubling error code, there are several additional steps to follow in order to successfully update their devices and restore functionality.

The release notes for the V20.0.1 update clearly indicate its primary purpose: to resolve the issue where users encountered Error Code: 2206-1015 during the restart process after updating to the system version 20.0.0. The update is not critical for users who have not experienced these boot issues but is essential for those affected.

Nintendo has provided clear instructions for users facing the Error Code: 2206-1015, emphasizing that the update must be applied while the console is in Maintenance Mode. This precaution is necessary because the aforementioned error code prevents some users from being able to boot their consoles, thereby making it impossible to receive the update through the standard channels, whether automatically or manually via the System Settings menu.

For those needing assistance, Nintendo has outlined a step-by-step process to facilitate the update:

  • First, make sure the console is completely powered off.
  • If the console does not respond, press and hold the POWER Button for twelve seconds to force it to shut down.
  • Once the console is powered off, hold down both the volume up (+) and volume down (-) buttons simultaneously, then press the POWER Button to turn the system on.
  • Continue to hold the volume buttons until the Maintenance Mode menu appears on the screen.
  • In Maintenance Mode, select the 'Update System' option and follow the on-screen prompts to complete the update process.

Its crucial to be aware that if a Parental Control PIN has previously been set on the device, users will be required to enter it during this process. In instances where users have forgotten their PIN, it will need to be reset in order to proceed with the update.

For those who encounter any difficulties even after applying the V20.0.1 update using the provided steps, or if different error codes appear upon booting, Nintendo encourages users to contact their official support channels for further assistance. This uptick in customer service inquiries highlights the challenges that can arise from software updates, even in a well-loved gaming console like the Switch.