What is Tinfoil?

Tinfoil is a homebrew application that facilitates game downloads when linked to a private server. Without server linkage, Tinfoil alone cannot download games.

There are two types of servers available for Tinfoil:

1) Open-source Servers, such as Freeshop or Unlocked shops

2) Locked Private Server which our team uses

What games are available on the server?

99.9% of the available library is available for download including region exclusive games from Korea, Japan and Hong Kong.

Will my game save on Original Firmware be deleted after modification?

Your original game save data will not be deleted after modification. It will be cloned to the modded partition. Therefore, you will have 2 sets of save data.

What are the differences between Open-source Servers and Locked Private Server?

Open-source Servers are used by users all over the globe which could lead to quota issues, frequent closures due to other factors such as hosting, storage limitations or legality issues. In comparison, a locked private server is self-hosted, a close source only for community members and regulated. You won't face quota issues, sudden closure or lack of content.

Can the modification be reverted?

Yes, the modchip can be removed for a surcharge.

Will modification shorten the lifespan of the console?

No, it will not shorten the lifespan of your console. However, how you use the console will impact the lifespan of the console. Eg. Frequently leaving it charging overnight may cause the motherboard to fail at a quicker rate.

What modchip is used?

The modchip used is not crucial as the primary purpose of the chip is only to boot the system into custom firmware.

What is required from you?

1) Switch Console - Joy-Cons are optional

2) 256gb MicroSD Card - MicroSD Card is mandatory as well as all essential custom firmware files and homebrews will run off your MicroSD Card. You can Provide your own or purchase from us.

3) Gmail - A Gmail is required for Tinfoil Linkage (You are not required to let us know your password)

4) 30% Battery - Ensure your console has at least 30% battery when you send in, this is to ensure a smooth and efficient process.

What is the recommended MicroSD Card size and brand that I should use?

Minimum recommended size will be 256gb. This is due to anti-ban protection setup required. We recommend Samsung Evo Plus or Sandisk Extreme for the most optimised usage of the switch

Can Android/Linux be installed?

Yes, but it requires a second SD card.

Is it recommended?

We do not recommend it, as our support focuses on the Switch itself. The Android version available for the Switch is usually outdated compared to current phone versions, leading to limitations.

We do not provide this service, however if you are interested you can research on how to setup Android/Linux on the switch with readily available guides on the internet.

What is the support group chat for?

1) General Chat - To chat with other members or ask questions

2) Help (Automated Bot Commands Here) - Self help bot commands to be entered here

3) Games Changelogs - Games there are added to the server will be shown here

4) Announcements - We post important information here! DO NOT mute this topic so that you won't miss out on the important information that could affect your console.

5) Advertisements - We share our prices and other sale related information here

6) Games Database Search - You can search for games you desire using the bot command in this topic, if the games are in our database the result will generate with the download link

7) PC/Windows Handheld/Steam Deck - Discussion about PC/Windows handheld devices

8) Other Gaming News - Gaming news and rumours not related to switch

9) Switch News - Switch related news and rumours

Can I download and play games concurrently?

No, unlike your phone, computers or e-shop, tinfoil does not support downloading in background and you have to let all your download complete being able to exit and start any games.

My switch doesn't detect my WIFI signal, what should I do?

The switch can always detect networks that are on 2.4ghz but not necessarily on 5ghz. For 5ghz, a specific channel number has to be set. The easiest way to solve this issue is for users using WIFI that supports 5ghz to ensure that you enable dual band settings.

How do I upgrade my MicroSD card?

Copy all the content from your current MicroSD card using a Windows PC, then transfer these contents to your new MicroSD card using a simple drag-and-drop method. Note: Use copy and paste, not cut and paste, this is to avoid data loss during the transfer.

Can I connect to WIFI in custom firmware? Do I need to disable WIFI?

Yes, you can connect to WIFI, which is required to download games from Tinfoil. Disabling WIFI is unnecessary as anti-ban protection is in place, blocking any attempted connection to Nintendo servers. If you try to access Nintendo online services, you will receive an error message, which is part of the anti-ban protection.

Can the Switch boot without a MicroSD card after modification?

No, the MicroSD card is required even for booting into the original firmware.

Will I get banned?

If you follow the provided guidelines, you will not get banned. The custom firmware operates on a separate partition from the original firmware, with each running on separate operating systems.

Can I play multiplayer offline?

Yes, you can play with others on the same network, regardless of whether their Switch is modded or unmodded. Ensure the games are on the same version for compatibility, typically by updating to the latest version.

Will multiple Joy-Cons work?

Yes, you can connect up to four pairs of Joy-Cons for multiplayer games on the same screen.

Where is the save data stored?

Original save data is stored in SysNAND on the motherboard, which is usually encrypted. Modded save data is stored on EmuNAND in the MicroSD card. Modded game saves are decrypted when manually backed up using JKSV, allowing you to see the saved files.

Can I update the firmware?

Yes, both modded and original firmware can be updated. However, do not update immediately upon a new release. Wait for us to release the patch, which an announcement will be released in the group chat.

How to update the firmware?

Original firmware updates can be done via WIFI. For modded firmware, follow the instructions in the announcement topic.

What does the warranty cover?

The warranty covers the modchip and soldering issues from the day your switch is returned after modification. Note: The warranty is not transferable.

What should I take note of?

Avoid docking your Switch permanently or for extended periods of time on charge when not in use, as this can result in the damage of the motherboard.

What are unsigned codes and why are they needed?

If you encounter the message “NCA signature not verified” when installing a game, abort the installation and use /konami in the help topic to enable unsigned codes. Games that requires unsigned codes are usually pre-release games dumped before their official release.

Do I need to be on WIFI to play games?

No, WIFI is not necessary to play games.