Switch 2 GameChat Mandates Phone Verification

Setting up GameChat on the Nintendo Switch 2 will require users to verify their identity with a phone number.

This video calling software is built into every Nintendo Switch 2 and is marketed as a central feature of the new console.

However, it's important to know that anyone activating GameChat must first undergo identity verification by providing a phone number to Nintendo (or using the number already linked to their Nintendo Account).

Nintendo will then send a verification text message to that number, linking all GameChat activity to it. So remember to use it responsibly!

For users under 16, GameChat will be blocked until a parent or guardian approves its use via the Parental Controls smartphone app. The guardian must then provide their own phone number for verification.

Information on Nintendo's official website, spotted by Eurogamer, indicates that every Nintendo Account holder must complete this verification to use GameChat on a Switch 2, even on a shared console. IGN has contacted Nintendo for official confirmation.

Players can access GameChat at any time during gameplay by pressing the new 'C' button found on the console's controllers. This feature supports video chats for up to four people or group audio calls with up to 24 participants.

During a video call, users can show themselves using an optional camera peripheral and stream their gameplay live. This marks the first time Nintendo has offered such a service, a notable step forward for the family-friendly company which has historically trailed behind other console makers in online features.

Nintendo Switch 2 System and Accessories Gallery

View 91 Images

Last week, the technical analysts at Digital Foundry revealed the final specifications for the Nintendo Switch 2, noting that the GameChat feature has a "significant impact" on system resources, raising concerns among developers.

Digital Foundry reported that Nintendo provides developers with a GameChat testing tool that simulates the API latency and L3 cache misses caused by the feature. This allows developers to test performance impacts without running active GameChat sessions.

The analysis raised the question of whether having GameChat active affects game performance for the end user. If GameChat's resource usage stays within its allocated system budget, there should be no difference. However, the existence of these simulation tools suggests a potential performance impact that developers must account for.

As Digital Foundry stated: "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." A definitive answer will only come when the Switch 2 launches on June 5.

As another 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 access the service.

Earlier this week, we got our first clear look at a Switch 2 game cartridge and reports emerged that Samsung is keen to supply OLED screens for a future Switch 2 upgrade model.