The Nintendo Switch just got an update, and we still don’t have folders

You can delete old update data, though

Ah folders. They’re great. Pins rule on Xbox, and folders were fun on PS4 (the grace period for PS5 having them is getting shorter!). When will Switch folders arrive? Who knows!

For now, we have firmware update 12.1.0. It just arrived this week, and allows users to essentially delete old software update data so they have enough room to install it. In other words, if a Fortnite update is 10GB but you only have 5GB left, you can delete the old update and presumably free up enough space to actually grab the update without deleting other games. In theory, at least.

Every few weeks I’m reminded of the countless fan designs of an interface for Switch folders, like this one. Or this one. They look great! And can’t you tell that I’ve been beating this folder drum for a while?

You can find the full firmware update notes here, or below. Note that Joy-Con also got a stability update as well, so make sure you connect those and get it done.

Ver. 12.1.0 (Released July 5, 2021)

Added the following system functionality:

• If there is not enough space remaining on the system memory (internal storage) or microSD card when downloading game software update data, you can now delete old data for that software, enabling you to download the new data.
  • When deleting the old data, you won’t be able to play the game until the new data has finished downloading.