Nintendo Switch 2 GameChat Now Requires Phone Number Verification

The Nintendo Switch 2 introduces a new feature called GameChat, which is integrated into all consoles and highlighted as a significant enhancement of the system. However, to set up GameChat, users must first verify their identity by providing a phone number to Nintendo. If you've already linked a number to your Nintendo Account, you can use that. Once provided, Nintendo will send a text message to that number, linking your GameChat activity to it. It's essential to use this feature responsibly.

For users under 16, GameChat is initially blocked. A parent or guardian must use the Parental Controls smart device app to enable it, and they will also need to provide their own phone number for verification via text message. Information on Nintendo's website, as noted by Eurogamer, suggests that this verification process is required for all Nintendo Account holders using a Switch 2, even if the console is shared. IGN has reached out to Nintendo for further clarification on this requirement.

Activating GameChat is straightforward; just press the new 'C' button on the Switch 2 controllers to start a video chat with up to four people or join a group audio call with up to 24. For video calls, a separately sold camera peripheral can be used to broadcast yourself and stream your gameplay. This marks Nintendo's first foray into such services, aiming to catch up with competitors in the realm of online features.

Nintendo Switch 2 System and Accessories Gallery

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Recent insights from Digital Foundry have shed light on the final specifications of the Nintendo Switch 2, revealing concerns about GameChat's impact on system resources. Developers are reportedly worried about how GameChat might affect game performance. Nintendo offers a GameChat testing tool to simulate the feature's effect on the system, allowing developers to test without active GameChat sessions. While it's unclear how much GameChat impacts performance, the availability of these tools suggests there could be some effect that developers need to consider. Digital Foundry noted, "We'll be interested to see how GameChat may (or may not) impact game performance as this does seem to be an area of developer concern." We'll have a clearer picture when the Switch 2 launches on June 5.

Remember, GameChat will be free to use for the first 10 months after the Switch 2's release. After March 31, 2026, using GameChat will require a Nintendo Switch Online membership.

In other news, we've seen the first look at a Switch 2 game cartridge, and there are reports that Samsung is interested in providing OLED screens for a potential Switch 2 upgrade.