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Your Nintendo Switch now runs Android 10 (unofficially)
- An unofficial Android 10 port is now available for the Nintendo Switch.
- The LineageOS-based port brings extensive hardware support, and even your choice of Android TV.
- As always, you’re installing it at your own risk.
You no longer have to use ancient software to run Android on your Nintendo Switch. According to XDA, the SwitchRoot team has unofficially ported Android 10 to Nintendo’s console, complete with some welcome improvements over an earlier Android 8.1 Oreo release.
The Lineage OS 17.1-based release is available with both standard Android 10 as well as an Android TV version that loses some app compatibility in return for better functionality while your Switch is docked. Regardless of the version, you’ll get full Joy-Con, Pro Controller, and Hori support as well as better Wi-Fi, touch, and charging functionality. There’s also a new deep sleep mode that can keep your system powered for “weeks.”
Some games built for NVIDIA’s Shield, like Half-Life 2, won’t work with the Android 10 port for Switch. There are also some issues with stuttering Bluetooth audio and some apps failing to recognize the Joy-Con directional pad.
As with many unofficial ports, running Android 10 on your Switch will involve some work and a lot of risk. You’ll need a system old enough for RCM exploits as well as a USB-C cable, a fast microSD card and the know-how to install a ROM from your computer. Suffice it to say Nintendo won’t help you if there are any problems.
If you’re willing to live with the risk, though, it might be tempting to run Android 10 on your Switch. Nintendo’s hardware is potentially ideal for Android games, and the Android TV release gives you a media center if you didn’t have one already. Just consider getting a second Switch if you still intend to play games using the native platform.