But it’s not just about aesthetics. This update packs some genuinely useful features that address common parental concerns and requests.
The headline feature, undoubtedly, is the addition of dark mode. The app now intelligently switches its display theme based on your smart device’s system settings. No more blinding white screens when you’re trying to subtly adjust playtime limits after the kids are (supposed to be) asleep.
Nintendo is listening to parents. The update brings increased flexibility to managing screen time. Here’s a breakdown:
- Extended Playtime Options: Need to grant a little extra gaming leeway? You can now extend daily playtime limits by 1 hour, in addition to the existing 5-, 15-, and 30-minute increments.
- Detailed Bedtime Settings: This is a game-changer. Parents can now customize the allowed playtime start time for each day of the week. No more blanket rules – tailor the schedule to fit school nights versus weekends.
- Organize Supervised Systems: Juggling multiple Switch consoles under your watchful eye? You can now freely rearrange the order in which supervised systems are displayed in the app, making management smoother.
The patch notes conclude with the classic “Other improvements have also been made.” While vague, this suggests Nintendo is committed to ongoing refinement of the app based on user feedback. It’s a reminder that software is never truly “finished,” but constantly evolving.
As Jim Norman from Nintendo Life aptly points out, this update provides “nice quality of life updates!”
This update arrives alongside news of the Nintendo Switch 2 System Update 21.1.0, fueling speculation about Nintendo’s future direction. While parental controls might not be the most glamorous topic, they are a critical component of responsible gaming and family entertainment. These incremental improvements demonstrate Nintendo’s commitment to providing a safe and manageable gaming experience for families as they transition into the next generation of consoles.
