Nintendo Switch 2's GameChat Requires Phone Verification During Setup

Nintendo's integrated video calling software comes pre-installed on all Switch 2 consoles and is being positioned as a flagship feature of the new system.

However, users should note that initial GameChat setup requires identity verification through a linked phone number - either newly provided or already associated with your Nintendo Account.

The verification process involves receiving a confirmation text, effectively connecting your GameChat usage to that phone number. Consider yourself warned!

Users under 16 will need parental approval through Nintendo's Parental Controls app, requiring guardian phone verification before accessing GameChat features.

Nintendo's official documentation suggests this verification applies universally - including shared consoles - though IGN has reached out for official confirmation.

The feature activates instantly during gameplay via the new 'C' button across Switch 2 controllers, supporting up to four simultaneous video chats or 24-person audio conferences.

Video calls support external camera peripherals (sold separately) and optional game streaming - marking Nintendo's first foray into this social gaming space after historically trailing competitors in online services.

Nintendo Switch 2 System and Accessories Gallery

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Recent Digital Foundry reports reveal GameChat's substantial system resource demands, with developers expressing concerns about potential performance impacts.

Nintendo provides specialized GameChat testing tools simulating API latency and cache issues, allowing developers to evaluate performance without live calls - strongly suggesting measurable performance tradeoffs.

As Digital Foundry notes: "We'll be interested to observe GameChat's real-world performance impact, especially given developer apprehensions." Final clarity will come with the Switch 2's June 5 launch.

GameChat remains complimentary during the Switch 2's first ten months, transitioning to Nintendo Switch Online membership requirements after March 31, 2026.

This follows recent revelations about Switch 2 game cartridges and rumors of Samsung supplying OLED displays for future hardware revisions.