Android 10 Update Comes to the Nintendo Switch

The Switchroot team, which can be credited for bringing Android to the Nintendo Switch, has now brought an Android 10 update to the device. The mod, only available for specific Switch models, allows users to run Google Play Store apps, such as streaming services like Twitch and Netflix, emulators, and games.

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The Android 10 update makes the mod more polished, with the Joy-Con sticks now having the ability to function as proper analog sticks instead of eight-way D-pads. There’s also deep sleep support capable of lasting for weeks, better Wi-Fi support, and over-the-air updates.

Adding Android to a Nintendo Switch lets you play non-Switch games, such as those made playable by Nintendo DS, PSP, and Game Boy Advance emulators on the Play Store. You can also get apps like Spotify or Play Store games like Genshin Impact. Android is installed on a microSD card and not flashed to the console, preventing you from losing the ability to play Switch games.

Android on the Switch is unofficial—the LineageOS team doesn’t officially support the port, and it’s mostly a modified version of the OS created for the Nvidia Shield TV. There are also some limitations, such as there being no support for games built for the Nvidia Shield. If you’re running a previous version, the new Android 10 update brings:

  • an Android TV-based build
  • Android 10 based on Lineage 17.1
  • reworked fan profiles for quieter operation
  • Hori Joy-Con support
  • auto rotation support
  • optimized dock support with resolution scaling
  • reworked, simpler power profiles
  • reboot to payload support
  • easier install via Hekate partition tool
  • a rewritten charger driver that supports USB-PD and third-party docks
  • Shield TV remote app support for simplified docked control
  • optimized touch screen driver

You can check whether your Switch is moddable using an online tool. Some guides about getting into the Android bootloader say that making a mistake can brick your Switch, so they recommend extreme caution. All in all, it’s great to see this mod undergoing improvements over the years.

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