The error means that the bootloader (Hekate) successfully launched, but when it tried to locate and load pkg2 (usually stored on the eMMC or SD card’s system partition), the read operation failed. Consequently, it cannot hand control over to the Horizon OS.
The Switch is notoriously picky about SD cards. A failing card, a "fake" high-capacity card, or a filesystem formatted incorrectly (FAT32 is highly recommended over exFAT for stability) can prevent the bootloader from accessing the pkg2. Solving the Problem pkg2 read failed failed to launch hos
The Switch boots normally into CFW.
Last updated: 2025 – Compatible with Atmosphere 1.7.0+ and HOS 19.0.0+ The error means that the bootloader (Hekate) successfully
The Switch community thrives on shared knowledge. If a unique solution worked for you, document it and share it on platforms like GBAtemp or Reddit’s r/SwitchHacks. Your experience may help someone else staring at that same ominous black screen. A failing card, a "fake" high-capacity card, or
: If "hos" can be installed via a package, try updating or reinstalling it.
Most "pkg2" errors are caused by outdated custom firmware (CFW) files that do not support a newly installed Horizon OS (HOS) version.