Nintendo Switch 2 GameChat Now Requires Phone Verification

Nintendo has announced that the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 will feature a new GameChat service that requires users to verify their identity with a phone number upon setup. This service allows video and audio calls while gaming, marking a significant leap in Nintendo's online capabilities. Notably, if players are under 16, parental controls will be enforced, and a guardian must approve the use of GameChat. The service is free for the first ten months but will require a Nintendo Switch Online subscription afterward. Concerns have been raised regarding the potential impact of GameChat on console performance, as developers are testing system resources relating to this feature.

Developers have expressed concerns about GameChat's resource demands, suggesting there may be an impact on gaming performance. Nintendo has provided tools for developers to simulate GameChat's effects on system performance, indicating that developers need to assess any potential trade-offs between GameChat usage and game performance.

The Nintendo Switch 2, set to launch on June 5, 2025, aims to enhance online connectivity with features like GameChat, which allows up to four users to engage in video calls or 24 for audio chat. This is a notable shift as Nintendo has traditionally lagged in online services compared to competitors, and is part of their strategy to modernize and compete in the evolving gaming landscape. With a fresh look and upgraded hardware, the Switch 2 is generating excitement among fans eager for new features.