The Nintendo Switch 2 introduces GameChat, a new video and audio calling feature integrated directly into the console, highlighting it as a central component of the gaming experience. Users interested in setting up GameChat will need to verify their identity by providing a phone number to Nintendo. If you've previously linked a number to your Nintendo Account, that number will be used for verification. Once you submit your number, Nintendo will send a text message to complete the setup, linking your GameChat activity to that phone number.
For users under 16, GameChat is initially blocked. A parent or guardian must enable the feature through the Parental Controls smart device app, and they will also need to verify their own phone number via text message. According to information found on Nintendo's website, it seems that all Nintendo Account holders will need to go through this verification process when playing on a Switch 2, regardless of whether the console is shared among multiple users. IGN has reached out to Nintendo for clarification on this matter.
To access GameChat during gameplay, players can press the new 'C' button on the Switch 2's controllers. This feature supports video calls for up to four people and group audio calls for up to 24 participants. During a video call, users can use a separately sold camera peripheral to broadcast themselves and stream their gameplay. This marks Nintendo's first foray into offering such a service, bridging the gap with other console manufacturers in the realm of online features.
Nintendo Switch 2 System and Accessories Gallery
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Recently, Digital Foundry disclosed the final specifications for the Nintendo Switch 2, noting that the GameChat feature significantly impacts system resources. This has raised concerns among developers about potential performance issues. Nintendo provides a GameChat testing tool that simulates API latency and L3 cache misses, allowing developers to test their games without needing active GameChat sessions. This suggests that GameChat's resource usage might affect game performance, though the exact impact remains to be seen until the Switch 2's release on June 5.
As a reminder, GameChat will be free to use for the first 10 months following the Switch 2's launch. After March 31, 2026, a Nintendo Switch Online membership will be required to continue using GameChat. In other news, we've recently seen the first look at a Switch 2 game cartridge, and there are rumors that Samsung is interested in supplying OLED screens for a potential Switch 2 upgrade.
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