Nintendo Switch System Update 13.0.0 Goes Live, Adding Bluetooth Audio Support

Switch system update 13.0.0 has just gone live, prepping Nintendo's hybrid console for the OLED Model's release next month. Rumoured to arrive earlier this year, Bluetooth headphones, earbuds, speakers, and other audio devices can now be paired with a Switch or Switch Lite.

It's worth noting that Bluetooth microphones aren't supported in this and Nintendo's specified that when in use, a maximum of two wireless controllers can also be paired. Bluetooth audio is also disabled when local wireless communication is in effect.

Read More: Nintendo Switch Pro: OLED Model and Everything We Know

Nintendo Switch System Update 13.0.0 Goes Live, Adding Bluetooth Audio Support

There's a dock update feature included, which only affects docks with a built-in LAN port. More specifically, the updated dock arriving alongside Switch OLED models. Internet connections can be maintained in Sleep Mode now, while control stick calibration was also adjusted.

You can find the full patch notes below, courtesy of Nintendo's official support website:

Ver. 13.0.0 (Released September 14, 2021)

Bluetooth audio support was added.

• Headphones, earbuds, speakers, and other audio devices that connect with Bluetooth can now be paired with Nintendo Switch family systems for audio output.
  • Bluetooth microphones are not supported.
  • Up to two compatible wireless controllers can be connected to the system while using Bluetooth audio.
  • Bluetooth audio cannot be used while local wireless communication is active.
  • For more information, see How to Pair and Manage Bluetooth Audio Devices.

“Update Dock” was added under System in System Settings for Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch – OLED Model systems, allowing for software updates to Nintendo Switch docks with a LAN port.

• Dock software updates are not available for Nintendo Switch docks without a LAN port.
• This feature was not added to Nintendo Switch Lite.
• For more information, see How to Update the Dock Firmware.

“Maintain Internet Connection in Sleep Mode” was added under Sleep Mode in System Settings.

• When this setting is enabled, systems with wired internet connections will maintain internet connection even while in sleep mode. This allows for software and add-on content to download to the system while the system is in sleep mode.
  • The setting is enabled by default.
• When this setting is disabled, the system will connect to the internet only periodically, which decreases power consumption.

Note: Systems that are not updated to version 13.0.0 or later behave as if this setting is enabled.

The method to initiate “Calibrate Control Sticks” in System Settings was changed.

• From System Settings, go to Controllers and Sensors, select Calibrate Control Sticks, then fully tilt the control stick in any one direction and keep it tilted for a few seconds to begin calibration.

Users can now view whether their wireless internet connection is using the 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz frequency band under “Connection Status” after selecting Internet in System Settings.

Switch isn't the only console getting software updates today, either. On Sony's side, they've just released a major update for the PS5, adding in support for internal memory expansion and 3D audio through TV speakers. Meanwhile, while the PS4's had a significant update too. We'll keep you informed with further console news as it happens.