Nintendo has lagged behind with certain social features for some time, but it’s looking to make improvements with big changes on the Nintendo Switch 2. The new console has a whole new way for players to communicate with friends while playing games. Here’s what you need to know about GameChat on Nintendo Switch 2.

How to set up GameChat on Switch 2

A new orange GameChat icon is now at the bottom of the home screen. Press that–or the brand-new C button located on the right Joy-Con or Pro Controller–to access the GameChat features. Keep in mind that, normally, you need a Nintendo Switch Online membership to use GameChat. For now, though, Nintendo is allowing all players to use GameChat in an open-access period until March 31, 2026. That does mean, if you don’t subscribe, you’ll be left with a button that does nothing.

The GameChat user agreement will pop up the first time you set up. You need to consent to the terms to use the features, but you can withdraw consent whenever you want by re-entering the GameChat settings menu. You also need to provide a phone number and confirm it via text message.

You can only use GameChat to talk to friends you’ve approved. The setup process will automatically show you your friends list, allowing you to approve the friends who can communicate with you via GameChat. Once this final step is complete, you can select the Create Chat, Chat List, or Settings options.

Create Chat allows you to start a voice chat with any friends you select, but you can only select a friend if they’ve also gone through the steps above to set up their GameChat. The Chat List displays any invitations you receive from friends to join a chat that has already been created. And, finally, the Settings menu allows you to re-select your chat-approved friends, change microphone settings, report other chatters, and revisit the GameChat terms.

GameChat can also be used to set up GameShare for long-distance sessions. If a GameShare session isn’t local, it needs to be created through GameChat. Even if only one player owns a game, all participating players can GameShare to play the same game over a long-distance connection for as long as the GameChat session lasts.

First, the owner of the GameShare-compatible game needs to look for the GameShare option inside the game. Then, the players without the game need to press the GameShare option on the Nintendo Switch 2 home screen and select the GameChat Session option.

A maximum of 12 players can join a single chat at one time, and while chatting, you can connect a compatible USB-C camera to add a visual element. A Nintendo Switch 2 camera is being sold specifically for the console, and it can be bought separately. Plug your camera into the USB-C port on top of the console to connect and start using it for GameChat. You can use your own USB-C camera, but not all cameras work as intended. Go to System Settings, then Controllers & Accessories to find the Test USB Camera option. Use this to see if your camera is compatible with the Nintendo Switch 2.

If you’re a parent, be aware that there are also GameChat parental controls that can prevent your child from using video chats in GameChat.

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