Nintendo has released a system update for Nintendo Switch 2 version 22.0.0, adding a new feature called Handheld Mode Boost. It allows you to run games from the original Nintendo Switch in handheld mode with performance similar to the docking station mode.
The main advantage of the innovation is a noticeable improvement in image quality due to a higher target resolution. However, as users note, this comes at the cost of reduced battery life. According to player estimates published on Reddit, battery life is reduced by approximately 25% when the function is activated. For example, in DOOM (2016), the console lasted 3 hours and 43 minutes instead of the previous 5 hours and 5 minutes.
According to the update description, when Handheld Mode Boost is enabled, games in handheld and tabletop modes actually run as if the console is running in TV mode. This can indeed improve graphics, but at the same time increases power consumption. At the same time, the effect depends on the specific game, and the function does not apply to projects created specifically for Switch 2.
There are other disadvantages as well. In this mode, the touch screen is disabled, and connected Joy-Con 2 controllers are recognized as Pro Controllers. In addition, connecting other gamepads will require disconnecting the Joy-Con from the console.